Yes, you can iron chart paper to smooth out wrinkles and creases, provided you follow specific precautions to prevent damage. The key is to use the correct iron setting and protective layers.
How to Iron Chart Paper Safely and Effectively
To successfully iron chart paper without damaging it or your iron, it's crucial to follow a careful procedure. The main goal is to apply gentle heat indirectly.
Essential Steps for Ironing Chart Paper
Based on expert advice, here are the steps to safely iron your chart paper:
- Prepare Your Iron: Set your iron to a medium-high setting. This temperature is generally sufficient to remove wrinkles from paper without scorching it.
- Prepare Your Ironing Surface: Always use a cloth-covered ironing board. This provides a soft, heat-resistant surface that protects both your paper and your furniture.
- Use a Covering Cloth: This is a critical step. Place a clean, thin piece of fabric (like a cotton pillowcase or a pressing cloth) over the chart paper before applying the iron. This acts as a barrier, as "the paper may stick to the iron's surface" if ironed directly.
- Iron Gently: Lightly press the iron over the covering cloth, moving it steadily. Avoid leaving the iron in one spot for too long.
Tips for Optimal Results
For the best outcome and to ensure your chart paper remains in pristine condition:
- Test a Small Area: If possible, test the process on a small, inconspicuous corner of the chart paper or a similar type of paper first.
- Avoid Steam Initially: Unless you are absolutely sure of the paper's resilience, it's best to iron without steam. Moisture can cause paper to warp, ripple, or even tear.
- Slow and Steady: Iron slowly and evenly across the surface. This allows the heat to gradually smooth out the wrinkles without shocking the paper.
- Cool Flat: Once ironed, allow the chart paper to cool completely on a flat, clean surface before handling or rolling it. This helps to "set" the smoothness.
Summary of Ironing Best Practices
Here’s a quick overview of the recommended settings and tools for ironing chart paper:
| Setting/Tool | Recommendation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Iron Temperature | Medium-high setting | Effective wrinkle removal without overheating the paper. |
| Ironing Board Surface | Cloth-covered | Provides a stable, protected base for ironing. |
| Covering Cloth | Essential | Prevents the chart paper from sticking to the iron's surface and distributes heat evenly. |
By following these guidelines, you can effectively remove creases from chart paper, making it look much neater for presentations, displays, or storage.
