Big Goddess Pressing Sheet: How to Press Quilt Blocks
By Quilt in a Day - Helping Quilters Since 1978 | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to use the Big Goddess Pressing Sheet to press quilt blocks and applique without scorching or sticky residue. Step-by-step tips for clean, flat results.
Quick answer
Use the Big Goddess Pressing Sheet as a nonstick barrier between your iron and fusible applique or delicate quilt blocks. Place it glossy side up, press with a dry iron, and let pieces cool before peeling them off for clean, flat results.
Why a pressing sheet beats a bare ironing board for fusible work
A standard ironing board cover is designed for general pressing, but it can grab fusible residue and leave a sticky film that transfers to later projects. The Big Goddess Pressing Sheet provides a slick, nonstick surface that keeps glue where it belongs—on your applique—and protects your iron soleplate from buildup.
For quilt blocks that need precise seams, the sheet also gives you a temporary pressing surface that won’t distort the block shape. It’s especially useful when you’re working with small pieces or complex fusible designs that would otherwise stick to the board.
When to skip the sheet and use your ironing board instead
The pressing sheet is not a replacement for your ironing board when you need steam or heavy pressure for yardage. For large seams and general yardage pressing, a traditional board with a cotton cover remains the better choice because it absorbs moisture and holds heat.
Also, if your fabric is heavily starched or damp, the sheet’s nonstick surface may trap moisture and create a wrinkled finish. In those cases, press on the board first, then use the sheet only for fusible application or final touch-ups.
How to press quilt blocks with the Big Goddess Pressing Sheet
- Set up the sheet on a heat-safe surface: Place the Big Goddess Pressing Sheet glossy side up on your ironing board or a sturdy table. Smooth out any wrinkles by hand—do not iron the sheet itself. Check that the sheet lies flat; a curled edge can cause uneven pressure.
- Preheat your iron to the fabric’s setting: Set a dry iron (no steam) to the temperature recommended for your fabric. Let it heat fully for two minutes before pressing. Too hot an iron can scorch fusible adhesive; test on a scrap first.
- Position the quilt block or applique on the sheet: Lay the piece right side up on the sheet. For fusible applique, place the fusible side down against the fabric, then cover with the sheet. Keep the shiny side of the sheet facing the iron—not the fabric—for best release.
- Press with firm, even pressure: Press the iron down and hold for 3–5 seconds, then lift and move to the next area. Do not slide the iron; sliding can shift pieces. Use a pressing motion, not an ironing motion, to avoid stretching bias edges.
- Let the piece cool completely before removing: Wait until the sheet and fabric are cool to the touch. Peeling warm fusible can leave strings of adhesive or distort the block. Cooling also helps the fusible bond fully set for a secure hold.
- Clean the sheet after each use: Wipe the sheet with a damp cloth once cool. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the nonstick coating. Store the sheet flat or rolled—folding can create creases that affect pressing.
Product facts
- Big Goddess Pressing Sheet 17-3/4in x 24in: Big Goddess Pressing Sheet measures 17-3/4in x 24in and has a Teflon-coated fiberglass surface. The generous size covers most quilt blocks and applique layouts, while the nonstick coating prevents fusible webbing from sticking to the sheet.
Big Goddess Pressing Sheet 17-3/4in x 24in
