The Laurastar Lift Iron: The Vanisher of All Wrinkles
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Find out why I spent over $700 on an iron and why I love it!
I’ve recently made a big investment in my studio and I wanted to share with you about this product and why I would spend over $700 on an iron. I know it’s not going to be for everyone, but, like having the right sewing machine enhances your quilting, there are other tools that can enhance your quilting experience. I’m talking about the Laurastar Lift Iron which I’ve recently purchased and have incorporated into my own quilting journey.
A Little Background
For over a year I’ve considered getting some sort of iron with a larger water tank. I still love and use my Reliable iron, but when I’m making a quilt, it can run out of steam pretty fast and this got me searching for an iron with a larger water tank.
Another issue has to do with longarming. Before I load a quilt onto the longarm, everything must be ironed or unpressed wrinkles can turn into a quilting mess on the back which then requires unstitching. Pressing a large piece of fabric can take a ton of time, and larger pieces of fabric can get re-wrinkled during the process.
Meet the Laurastar Lift Iron: The Vanisher of All Wrinkles. With the Laurastar Lift I bypass the ironing board and load the quilt back onto the longarm frame. Then I steam and roll, steam and roll.
And I also do this when I load the batting and quilt top. It has been a huge time saver and will ultimately save me money because I won’t have to pay a longarmer.
See the before and after images which took seconds to achieve. I can literally have an entire quilt back wrinkle free in a few minutes AND nothing is dragging on the ground. For me, this is a huge.
The Steam Destroys Wrinkles
The Laurastar Lift Iron is, admittedly, a luxury with its price tag hovering between the $700 – $800 mark. Before you click off this blog post, I really want you to understand why this investment can bring unparalleled benefits that justify its cost for those who are serious about your quilting and sewing projects.
Its advanced technology and superior steam capabilities smooth out wrinkles effortlessly, ensuring that your fabrics are in pristine condition before you make that first cut or stitch. I cannot emphasize this feature enough. The steam on this iron is like magic. Just a blast and fat quarter fold lines are gone! I barely have to touch the iron to the fabric – that’s how impressive the steam is. Hence the name: The Vanisher of All Wrinkles!
When I combine my Laurastar Lift and a wool pressing mat, in seconds it flattens things like Fat Quarters (even when stacked 2-3 together!), HSTs, and Flying Geese. The steam feature alone makes the Laurastar Lift Iron a game-changer, providing a professional finish that elevates the quality of your quilts.
Considerations & Maintenance
Of course, no high-end tool comes without other considerations. The Laurastar Lift Iron does require some maintenance to keep it performing at its best. Regular cleaning and descaling are part of its upkeep, ensuring that the steam function continues to operate efficiently. However, I’ve found this small investment of time to be well worth the effort, given the iron’s exceptional performance.
There are also water filter cartridges that must be replaced periodically and this cost must be factored into your decision.
Just like your sewing machine needs regular maintenance, the same is true for the the Laurastar Lift Ironing system. By regularly replacing the water filter cartridges and descaling, your ironing system will work beautifully for many years.
Studio Solutions and an Ikea Hack
Understanding the need for flexibility in a sewing studio, I’ve paired my Laurastar Lift Iron with a little IKEA rolling cart and a surge protector with a long cord. This solution allows me to move the iron easily around my workspace, ensuring it’s always where I need it without cluttering my sewing area. It’s a simple, yet effective, way to keep my quilty space organized and the creative flow uninterrupted.
It’s important to note that Laurastar does sell a very expensive rolling cart for the Lift, but I tested this at Quilt Market and felt like it was overpriced and didn’t serve the needs of quilters. The Ikea rolling cart is sturdy, inexpensive, and, most importantly, is about the height of an ironing board. This is ideal when working on larger quilts because the hose that connects the iron to the steam generator is very long and can reach across a larger ironing surface.
A Slightly Different Way of Ironing
Something to note, this iron does not sit up when you need to set it down. Instead it comes with a silicone mat. This means you never set the iron on its heel; instead, you rest it on the silicone mat. I usually place my mat next to the iron on my ironing board’s iron rest (see above image).
This took me a second to adjust my ironing ways, but now it’s second nature and I’ve found I prefer this. The actual iron itself is lighter weight and I can easily glide over everything.
Pros & Cons
With any major purchase, it’s always good to think through the pros and cons.
Pros of the Laurastar Lift Iron
- Superior Steam Technology: The Laurastar Lift Iron features advanced steam capabilities that penetrate fabrics deeply for effortless wrinkle removal, enhancing fabric handling for quilting projects.
- Professional-Quality Results: Designed to offer a professional finish, this iron ensures that your quilting and sewing projects look impeccably smooth and crisp.
- Versatility: It’s suitable for a wide range of fabrics, from delicate silks to sturdy cottons, making it a versatile tool for all your quilting, sewing, and crafting needs.
- Ergonomic Design: The Laurastar Lift Iron is designed for ease of use, with a comfortable grip and a lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver over fabrics and quilting pieces.
- Portable with a Secure Lock System: Its compact size and secure lock system make it easy to carry and store, ideal for quilters who attend workshops or need to move their iron around the studio.
- Time-Saving: The iron heats up quickly, saving valuable time and making the quilting process more efficient.
- Hygienic Steam: The steam system is designed to kill 99.9% of bacteria and germs, ensuring your fabric is not only wrinkle-free but also hygienic.
Cons of the Laurastar Lift Iron
- High Price Point: At around $700-$800, the Laurastar Lift Iron is a significant investment, which may be prohibitive for most quilters or those on a tight budget. Note: Never give up on getting something like this for your quilting space. These types of purchases were way beyond my means for most of my life. If I can find a way, maybe one day you can too!
- Maintenance Requirements: To keep the iron in top condition, regular maintenance, such as descaling and cleaning is required, which might be considered a hassle by some users.
- Learning Curve: Due to its advanced features and professional capabilities, there might be a learning curve for users transitioning from more basic models. I was so afraid of this, I didn’t unbox for 2 weeks!
- Weight: While designed to be portable, the entire ironing unit is still relatively heavy compared to standard irons, which might be a consideration for users with mobility issues or those who prefer a lighter tool. The iron itself isn’t as heavy, but the steam hose makes it a little bulky.
- Limited Availability: Depending on your location, the Laurastar Lift Iron might not be readily available in local stores, requiring an online purchase and potentially incurring shipping costs. I found the best deal on Amazon, but only through the Laurastar Amazon Store. And watch for price fluctuations and Amazon coupons. That’s what I used and it saved me over $100!
Balancing Cost and Precision
While the cost of the Laurastar Lift Iron may be prohibitive for some, it’s important to weigh this against the value it brings to your quilting projects. For those who can make the investment, this iron is a powerful ally in achieving flawless results. Its ability to prepare fabrics perfectly, combined with the convenience of a mobile cart, makes it a worthwhile addition to any quilter’s studio.
As you approach a holiday such as Christmas or Mother’s Day, consider the Laurastar Lift Iron not just as a tool, but as a companion for your quilting journey. Remember, it’s a statement of commitment to the craft we love. It’s a reminder that with the right tools, our creative potential is limitless.
