Best Mini Irons for Quilting and Sewing

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 28, 2023
While pressing tiny seams, ribbons, and hems is generally a challenge for standard full-size irons, it's not a problem for an ultra mini iron. This baby can get into all the nooks and crannies leaving nothing but smoothness. A portable, small iron is the most important tool you need for delicate and awkward areas. It's ideal for crafting, quilting, sewing, or just for traveling. For this review, we have selected the best mini irons to make your choice less tricky. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
POWER
Mechanism
USABILITY
WEIGHT
IN THE BOX
WARRANTY
 
PROS

The set includes a unique Solemate™ attachment made of heat-resistant silicone, which can be used as a resting stand during an ironing process. Also, it allows you to neatly store the unit when it's not in use.

CONS

With prolonged use, it may emit some plastic smell.

OUR VERDICT

The Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project iron is the best choice for serious quilting jobs. It glides perfectly on all types of fabrics thanks to the Diamond-coated ceramic soleplate and heats up to the highest temp setting in just 45 seconds.

detailed parameters
POWER

1000 watts

Mechanism

Diamond-coated ceramic soleplate with precision tip

USABILITY

Fabric selector, One-Press steam control, Pivot cord, Universal voltage

WEIGHT

35.2 oz

IN THE BOX

SoleMate

WARRANTY

3 years

PROS

The precision tip makes getting into pleats and ironing between buttons, along the seams, and under the collars so much easier. The Microsteam 200 stainless steel soleplate doesn't just glide perfectly across all fabrics, but also features improved steam distribution with its 200 steam holes.

CONS

Doesn't include an adapter for Europe and other regions.

OUR VERDICT

With this powerful and functional travel iron, you should be able to enjoy just about every aspect of traveling and packing and take your travel game to a new level. 

detailed parameters
POWER

1000 watts

Mechanism

Unique microsteam stainless steel soleplate

USABILITY

Adjustable temperature, consistent steam, burst-of-steam, Vertical steam, transparent water tank, dual-voltage switch, folding handle, Precision tip

WEIGHT

25.6 oz

IN THE BOX

Travel pouch

WARRANTY

1 year limited

PROS

The iron has a specially shaped handle to make it comfortable to hold in the hand, while the 8-ft cord allows more freedom of movement while ironing. 

CONS

The metal stem tends to get quite hot as well, so be careful not to touch it.

OUR VERDICT

The Clover MCI-900 Mini Iron allows you to master particularly delicate craft projects, making it a sound choice for both sewers and those keen on quilting. It will also come in handy during travels for smoothing out creased garments.

detailed parameters
POWER

20 watts

Mechanism

Easy-glide metal soleplate

USABILITY

8-ft long electrical cord, Slide-switch setting for temperature adjustments

WEIGHT

3.2 oz

IN THE BOX

Stand with rubber sole feet and metal holder

WARRANTY

1 year limited

PROS

It takes the iron's soleplate only 15 seconds to heat up - a great feature when it comes to light touch-ups.

CONS

Some users would like the power cord to be detachable.

OUR VERDICT

Extremely compact and easy to use, Steamfast iron isone of the most popular travel irons. Simple temperature controls and tapered soleplate make ironing any fabric an effective and hassle-free process.

detailed parameters
POWER

400 watts

Mechanism

Non-stick soleplate

USABILITY

1-touch steam control, Dual voltage, Indicator light, Variable temperature

WEIGHT

15.4 oz

IN THE BOX

Travel bag, Plastic measuring cup

WARRANTY

1 year

PROS

Powerful performance along with the spray mist function makes this model ideal for ironing even some heavily creased fabrics. The 3-way auto shutooff provides added peace of mind.

CONS

According to some users, filling it up can be a bit of a challenge due to the narrow filling hole.

OUR VERDICT

The BLACK+DECKER IR40V is a practical mini iron equipped with all the necessary functions to ensure a comfortable and effective ironing of all types of fabrics and clothes. The enhanced soleplate is durable and non-stick for optimal results. 

detailed parameters
POWER

1200 watts

Mechanism

TrueGlide™ Nonstick Soleplate

USABILITY

SmartSteam™ Technology, 3-way auto shutoff, 360° pivoting ocrd, Easy-fill translucent water tank, Spray mist, Fabric guide, Anti-drip, Comfort grip handle

WEIGHT

31.7 oz

IN THE BOX

Plastic measuring cup

WARRANTY

2 years limited

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Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project

Travel and Sewer Friendly

Claimed to be "an iron for mini projects", the Oliso M2 Pro packs a big punch and can do much more. Of course, the mini iron like this is not suitable for heavy ironing jobs but for light daily touch-ups, it's more than enough. With incredible 1000-watt output, this little guy packs all the power of full-sized irons but in a much more compact body. Therefore, it can easily sit next to your sewing machine for ironing appliques down when embroidering or for pressing down small seams. Also, the iron easily fits into a travel bag when you want your clothes to look flawlessly during those important business meetings. The iron easily switches between 120v or 240v for overseas use.

Featured with 3 temperature settings, the Oliso M2 Pro iron is suitable for most kinds of fabrics including synthetic, wool, silk, linen, and cotton. The temp selector is a cool-looking dial that needs to be turned nearly full 360 degrees from low to high. What is notable, the iron heats to its highest setting in mere 45 seconds, allowing you to get to your projects as quickly as possible. With that, it gets hot enough for serious quilting jobs.

Another thing that brings the Oliso M2 Pro closer to full-sized siblings is the steam function. Although it's a bit less consistent, it's still a nice feature that lets you wipe away stubborn wrinkles or apply more serious pressing power for pleats.

Review of Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project Iron with Solemate

Super Soleplate

Designed with a diamond-coated ceramic soleplate, the Oliso M2 Pro easily glides over all types of textures, staying consistently hot throughout the whole surface. The precision tip allows for reaching tight spots and corners, making the iron ideal not only for ironing around the buttons and other tight spots but also for appliqués.

Yet, the main thing that sets the Oliso M2 Pro above the competition is the addition of the dual-purpose SoleMate. It's the silicone trivet that does double duty by serving as a place to rest your iron and for storage. During ironing, just put it at the "resting side" and insert the iron whenever you need to change the garment or grab the appliqué. Sitting idle on the resting pad instead of upright, the iron has less chance of being accidentally bumped with a bare arm/hand. The only thing you should bear in mind is that you'll need to set the iron to setting 1 prior to resting it. When the ironing job is completed, you'll be able to snap the "storage side" of the SoleMate to the plate. The special hook and cord tether will neatly keep the iron when not in use.

All this surely makes the Oliso M2 Pro one of the best mini irons out there. It's powerful, stylish, very ergonomic in the hand and performs beautifully. Plus, the fact that you can park the iron on its little silicone pad is very nice. Of course, it's a bit pricey, but if you're a serious quilter, you won't regret spending a cent on this iron.

Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project Iron with Solemate in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $59.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07LD3VCWY

 

Rowenta DA1560

STEP UP YOUR TRAVEL GAME

Want to take your travel game to a whole new level? The Rowenta DA1560 might be able to help you with that. How exactly will it be able to accomplish that goal? Well, it definitely has something to do with the model's 1000W power. Though still a travel iron, it packs more of a regular iron punch. The model heats up in no time at all and it makes your clothes look neat and fresh just as fast.

With these travel appliances, part of the sell is ergonomics. There's only so much space in your suitcase and only so many items you can pack into it. With the Rowenta DA1560, it shouldn't be a problem. The iron features 8.6" x 4.9" x 3.9" in overall dimensions and 1.6 pounds in weight, so it isn't larger or heavier than your ordinary travel model. On top of that, the iron's handle folds flat, making storage or transportation even more convenient.

There's not much that you get from this deal other than the excellent iron. We like the drawstring cloth bag as it effortlessly serves as a nice little travel pouch. But we would like to see a European adapter as well. Unfortunately, it's not part of the package, so you'll have to buy one separately if you wish to travel abroad.

Review of Rowenta DA1560 Travel Compact Steam Iron

YOU'RE THE CAPTAIN OF THIS SHIP

The somewhat underwhelming package is definitely negated by the quality of the iron itself. It just does so much and does it so well. The model's precision tip makes getting into pleats and ironing between buttons, along the seams, and under the collars so much easier. The vertical steam option doesn't tie you to an ironing board, which is always a plus.

No travel iron is complete without a dual-voltage switch. But the model in question executes this function better than most. Equipped with 2 heating elements that ensure the iron is as powerful at 120 volts as it is at 240 volts, it is able to deliver a full range of ironing temperatures.

The soleplate is the soul of an iron (pardon the pun). Aside from the aforementioned precision tip, the highly polished and just as effective Microsteam 200 stainless steel soleplate doesn't just glide perfectly across all fabrics but also features improved steam distribution with its 200 steam holes.

Another part of the catch here is the amount of control that this iron gives you. The adjustable temperature function makes it easier to work with different fabrics. With consistent steam, you'll be able to sift through piles of laundry without breaking a sweat. And, for particularly stubborn fabrics, there's always the burst-of-steam button that will happily lend you a helping hand.

Again, packing is always a hassle and traveling, while often the best and the most exciting thing that we do, can be a nightmare from certain perspectives. But, with the Rowenta DA1560, you should be able to enjoy just about every aspect of it and take your travel game to a new level.

Rowenta DA1560 Travel Compact Steam Iron in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $37.42
Stock In stock
ASIN B001RNOQIQ

 

Clover MCI-900

Fully Lives Up to Its Name

Those keen on sewing and quilting know firsthand how tricky it can be to iron delicate crafts and remove wrinkles around cuffs, corners, points, ribbons, hems, and thin seams with a regular iron. However, this can be done much easier! Just give a try to the CLOVER mini iron and we bet it will be love at first sight!

CLOVER is one of the irons that fully lives up to its name. At a weight of just 3.2 ounces, this is one of the smallest irons out there, making it ideal for mastering quick bias techniques, paper crafts, vinyl decals, quilting, and so on. It is also very comfortable to hold it in the hand due to its specially shaped handle that gives you complete control over ironing. But the best thing about it is the mini shaped head - it's got just the perfect design to effortlessly reach the tightest of spots, giving crafters enough flexibility to expand their creativity to many more uses than just sewing.

Is CLOVER a powerful tool? It definitely is, even though its size may suggest otherwise. The unit heats up in an instant, generating lots of power to easily smooth out the worst wrinkles. This makes it a useful tool not only for crafting but also for quick touch-ups while traveling. Don't need that much heat? Just press a slide-switch on the side of the tool to use it in a low setting.

Review of Clover MCI-900 Mini Iron

Convenience Features

While we've already covered quite a lot of great features about the Clover MCI-900, we've not said much about its convenience of use. Many seamstresses would attest that ironing with an iron that has a short cord can be quite a challenge, to say the least. However, with Clover, this isn't a case. This model comes with a generous 8-ft cord that allows you lots of freedom of movement, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of craft ironing needs.

What about safety? The folk behind Clover took care of it by supplying this iron with handy rubber sole feet and a metal holder. This way, you can safely rest it on its feet between ironing sessions without the worry of burning the ironing surface. Just make sure that you hold it firmly like a pen and not touch the metal wand because it gets very hot.

To wrap up, if you are on the lookout for one of the smallest irons for craft needs, the Clover MCI-900 will fit you to a tee. Lightweight and compact, this model is powerful enough to remove the most stubborn of creases without getting too hot to damage vinyl decals, paper crafts, and delicate fabrics.

Clover MCI-900 Mini Iron in the use

Additional Info

User Manual

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B001CE73F8

 

Steamfast SF717

IRREPLACEABLE HELPER

Functional, compact, and easy-to-use, the Steamfast SF717 is just the perfect iron to take with you on a trip. Not only that. It is also featured with a dual voltage option, making it an irreplaceable assistant to take care of your garments not only within the U.S. but also outside of it.

Speaking of specs, the Steamfast SF717 provides 420 watts of power output and can reach a maximum temperature of 360 °F in less than one minute, which is just as fast as a regular larger iron. When the selected temperature is reached, the indicator flashes continuously, informing you that the iron is ready to use.

What about the iron's performance? It's nothing short of impressive. The Steamfast SF717 offers several temperature settings and can do an excellent job of smoothing out both thin and thick types of fabric. On top of that, it's equipped with a 1.4 oz water reservoir, meaning you can take advantage of its steam function when handling wrinkled items. Plus, it has a nice little rubber seal that prevents it from leaking.

Finally, it's worth saying a few words about the iron's design and packaging. Weighing only about 1 pound, it fits the palm snugly and feels comfortable in the hand. The included cord of 7 feet provides plenty of flexibility. Also included is a travel bag - a handy addition, making storage and transportation of the iron an easy and hassle-free process.

Review of Steamfast SF717 Home-and-Away Mini Steam Iron

SAFETY COMES FIRST

Even though travel irons do not have the power of convetional models, they can still be quite dangerous, so there are a few safety rules to follow. Here are some tips and recommendations to observe:

  • Check the condition of the power cord before each use to make sure it's not damaged. It is also recommended to stay away from extension cords.
  • Under no circumstances should the iron be left unattended. Always keep an eye on your children or elderly relatives who use the iron. Do not touch the soleplate of the iron when it is in use. You’ll know that the appliance has heated up when light indicator light comes on. Avoid skin contact with steam.
  • Allow the iron to cool completely before storing and transportation. This may take up to 30 minutes. The iron should be stored on its stand on a flat, stable surface.
Steamfast SF717 Home-and-Away Mini Steam Iron in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $19.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B001DTHPEQ

 

BLACK+DECKER IR40V

Power of Simplicity

Are you looking for an inexpensive mini iron to keep in your guest room or take with you on the next trip? If so, don't look any further than the Black+Decker IR40V. This model can be a great purchase for those who prioritize practicality over gimmmicky functions and want an iron that works.

As we've said, the Black+Decker IR40V is a very basic iron, but it's got quite a few tweaks. To start off, it features an enhanced TrueGlide Nonstick Soleplate that does an excellent job of ironing all types of fabrics. It's also got a steam function. What's remarkable about it is that it operates based on a proprietary SmartSteam technology, which allows it to automatically regulate the right level of steam and take the guesswork out of ironing. Besides, the iron has a spray mist function, enabling it to smooth out even really deep wrinkles.

Simple doesn't have to mean week, right? And the Black+Decker IR40V proves this. It's a powerful 1200W iron that heats up in mere seconds and get the job perfectly well. As a safety precaution, it's also fitted with a 3-way auto shut-off so if you ever leave it plugged in and go, it will automatically switch off.

Review of BLACK+DECKER IR40V Easy Steam Compact Iron

Lightweight but Powerful

Speaking of other conveniences, we should probably add that the Black + Decker IR40V has an anti-drip feature that prevents it from leaking. In addition, it's got a nice and long 360⁰ pivoting cord. So, not only will it not get in the way of ironing, but it will also not strain your wrist, allowing you to get ironing done quicker and with less discomfort. Besides the cord, we like the handy fabric guides on the inside of the iron, which tell you exactly when and what setting to use.

At a glance, the Black + Decker IR40V has a standard size, however, it's not bulky. Many find it just perfect for sewing projects to press seams, collars, etc. That being said, it's not too tiny, either, making it a sound choice for anyone looking to replace an old iron or an extra iron to keep in a guest bedroom or for travel. So, if you're after a budget-friendly iron that is quite lightweight, easy to use, yet powerful enough to cope with deep wrinkles, the Black + Decker IR40V is the one you need.

BLACK+DECKER IR40V Easy Steam Compact Iron in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B01NB05WI5

 

Infographics

Comparison of Mini Irons for Quilting and Sewing

What Is a Mini Iron?

If you are seriously engaged in quilting, sewing, or crafting, you know how challenging small seams or tiny hems may be. Therefore, you need a good and reliable iron that would be able to get into all those difficult areas. And a mini iron is a go-to option when it comes to delicate and awkward areas.

However, finding one that delivers great results isn’t very easy. That's why we would like to share our selection of the best mini irons for crafting. They are stoutly-built and maneuverable enough to iron tiny baby clothes, get into hard-to-reach areas around the buttons, and press tiny seams. Also, they can get hot enough to let you transfer images or heat seal patches onto fabrics.

We hope our review will help make your quilting projects easier and quicker. And if you want to make crafting even more convenient, you might be also interested in craft tables and cutting mats. They will help you complete your projects more accurately and precisely than ever before.

What Features to Compare

Type

Prior to making a purchase, you should clearly decide why you need a mini iron. For example, if you need it for sewing, you'll be better off with a model offering variable heat settings and a wide temperature range, allowing it to be used on a variety of fabrics, from delicate silk to dense cotton. You should also consider how good the ironing tip is, which is especially important for crafters mastering intricate appliques, decals, tapes, and so on. Are you searching for an iron to take with you while traveling? If so, pay attention to its weight and size as you don't want to overload your luggage.

Are you keen on quilting? Then we recommend that you opt for high-temperature models. When quilting, you're likely to use tough fabrics, so having an iron that can get really hot is essential. The soleplate shouldn't be very pointed, as bigger soleplates can cover larger areas on the quilt.

Irons for heat sealing also need to get hot enough to transfer images on fabrics, wood, copper, and other surfaces. Models that heat up above 400 degrees F are considered the best for sealing.

Performance

The power is the thing that primarily determines the iron’s performance. Looking at the wattage, you'll be able to figure out how fast the mini iron heats up.

Generally, an iron that has a higher power gets hot quicker and can reach higher temperatures. However, that's not always true for irons with ultra-mini soleplates. They can generate high heat without consuming that much power.

The soleplate is also worth your closer attention. Those produced from high-quality materials and treated with extra coatings can keep the friction between the iron and the fabric to the minimum, ensuring a smooth glide with no pulling.

Extras

Give your preference to mini irons with variable heat settings, allowing it to be used on different types of fabrics. Nearly all of the modern mini irons come with a setting for temperature adjustments - some have digital temperature settings and others have sliders or dials. Which one to choose is totally up to you!

Finally, note that some irons come supplied with additional attachments that allow you to extend your creativity to use them for a wide range of applications. So, if you're buying an iron for crafting, consider the bundle as well. 

Did you know?

Interesting Facts About Crafts

The first sewing machine was invented in 1790, and already in the 1860s women began to form sewing societies where they gathered together and made quilts.

The scrapbooking first appeared in the 1800s after the invention of photography.

In the Renaissance era, the term "crafts" was considered to be a lesser creative activity compared to "arts." People believed that a craftsman could predict what he was going to create, while an artist couldn’t.

Some research has found that there were 21 million quilters in the USA in 2010. Perhaps, this number is rapidly growing because the size of the creative industry was an incredible $44 billion in 2016 compared to $30.1 billion in 2011.

According to different surveys, 56% of Americans craft at least once a year.

The average household in the USA uses 47 feet of tape per year (only 10 feet is used for wrapping presents).

Unusual Benefits of Crafting

Did you know that crafting can bring you many health benefits and improve overall well-being? For one, detailed work involved with many projects can improve your hand-eye and spatial coordination. Also, it can help adults maintain, if not improve, manual dexterity.

Getting into the mental side of things, we can say that crafting calls for a good amount of focus which, in its turn, stimulate the areas of your brain that are dormant. Hence, we dare say crafting can keep your brain sharp and more well-rounded. Also, it improves mood - knowing that you’re doing something productive can make you happier. An online survey of 3,000 knitters has shown that more than half of the respondents reported that their hobby left them feeling "very happy."

Crafting can not only get your mind off problems but also get you off your smartphone and other gadgets. Once you start doing some project, you’re likely to notice that you spend way less time on your phone.

Crafting can help you learn new skills. Different types of craft projects require different skills. You can focus on one skill only and become a master at it, or you can do a variety and become a jack of all trades. There are really many talents you can acquire with crafting.

Crafting may boost your social activity. Crafting is a fun social activity since it promotes natural curiosity about other people's projects. Talking about your projects or wondering how to do something new bring craftsmen closer.

Finishing a project provides you with a sense of accomplishment. Everyone loves the feel of accomplishment and once you complete some project, you get that pleasant sense of pride. Plus, you create something unique and priceless, so you’ll definitely enjoy looking or using your craft for long years to come.

As we’ve just mentioned, you can make your own, unique crafty products you wouldn’t find at a store. People like exclusive things and are ready to shell out crazy sums of money for them.

Even if you don’t know what to start with, just try! Begin with simple projects like wood-burning, quilting, or scrapbooking.

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Publish Date: 2019-04-23 07:54:01