Stove Top Steamer

This document is also available in printer friendly PDF format:
download | view

1. Place the steamer across a gas or electric stove. When children are present, use the back burner. Add water up to, but do not cover, the steamer baffle (near the bottom of the steamer). Water may need to be added between steamings to prevent the steamer from running dry, but there should be no need to add more water while steaming.
2. Use unprinted newsprint wider than the fabric. Lay the fabric flat on your work surface and smooth out all wrinkles. Lay the steaming paper on the fabric and begin to roll fabric onto the pole provided. It is important to keep the paper between all the layers of the fabric to prevent back staining and permanent creasing on your fabric. Continue rolling until all the fabric is on the roll. Finish by wrapping an extra two layers of paper around the fabric and secure the roll with tape. Place the roll in the steamer.
3. The length of time required to set the dyes depends on the type of dyes and the amount of fabric on the roll. Generally, steam time will range from 20 minutes (once water boils) to 45 minutes. For larger rolls, steam time should be extended in order to penetrate all the layers of fabric. Prolonging the steam time beyond what is necessary to set the dyes does not increase permanence or brightness. The colors are either set or not. Likewise, those dyes that require a relatively long steam times do not result in better brightness or light-fastness. Start by steaming small pieces for one hour then cut back to thirty minutes. Compare and adjust the steam time based on the results.
4. While in use, the steamer’s metal cabinet will be hot. When steaming is complete, turn off the heat. Open the lid with a smooth swift motion to avoid condensation falling onto the roll of fabric. There is a baffle in the lid to direct water away from fabric. Avoid the steam burst and do not stand directly over the steamer when opening.