The “mystery” object in the photo: a charcoal box iron Full article

Moisture helped relax the fibers, allowing the heavy, heated soleplate to smooth them more effectively.

When the charcoal iron passed over damp fabric, steam rose into the air.

This contributed to the hot and humid conditions inside the workroom.

The fabric had to contain enough moisture to respond to the heat, but not so much that the process became continue reading …