Using a clapper and point presser
A point presser and clapper is a wooden tool with a pointed top for pressing hard-to-reach areas such as collars, and a flat clapper base. You hold the clapper on a freshly steamed seam to trap the steam for a flatter seam or a harder crease.
Pinny's tip
The clapper helps on thick fabrics such as wool and denim.
The clapper helps on thick fabrics such as wool and denim.
What you'll need
- Point presser and clapper: often sold as one wooden tool.
- Iron with steam: the clapper works by trapping the steam.
Step by step
- For a collar point, slide the work over the point and press the tip with the iron.
- For a seam, finger press it open, then steam it well, as long as your fabric can take it.
- Place the clapper on the seam and hold it there for about 5 to 10 seconds, until the steam is absorbed and the seam has cooled.
- Hold the clapper a little longer on thicker, bulkier fabrics.
Watch
How to Use a Point Presser & Clapper (3:55)
By Minerva · Open on YouTube
The video this technique page has always pointed to, a 3-minute one from Minerva. Embedded from YouTube with credit; we don't host it. It only loads when you press play.
Common mistakes
- Skipping the test. Check your fabric can handle the heat and steam first.
- Too little steam. The clapper works by trapping steam, so use plenty where the fabric allows.
Watch it done
- How to Use a Point Presser & Clapper by Minerva on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
- Get great pressing results with a Tailor’s Clapper by Nancy’s Notions on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
- How to use: Point Presser & Clapper by The Confident Stitch on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
Sources
All checked 1 November 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.