Best Ironing Board for Quilters

Looking for the best ironing board for your sewing room? Let’s make this easy. Quilters need more than just a regular ironing board—we need something with a larger surface area, a sturdy ironing board that won’t wobble, and one that can handle everything from quilt blocks to full quilt tops.

In this post, we’ll cover the must-haves, what to look out for, and which ironing boards are a great choice for quilters.

Whether you need a large ironing board for big quilt tops or a compact size for easy storage, I’ve got you covered.

Why Your Ironing Board Matters

If you’re pressing seams, joining quilt blocks, or dealing with large quilting projects, having the right ironing board is more than an upgrade—it’s essential.

A good quilting ironing board gives you a smooth surface to work on, adjusts to your height, and stays stable even during the toughest ironing tasks.

And let’s not forget about that ironing board cover—a flame retardant, machine washable cotton cover with some memory foam technology underneath makes a big difference.

I have an ironing board that I made myself – you can see it in the image above with the board on the bars of my longarm quilting machine. I love it and it really is easy to make yourself. The best thing about it – it fits my space perfectly and I can move it around the room when I need to.

What to Look for in a Quilting Ironing Board

1. Size of the Ironing Board
Look for a full-size ironing board or even a large ironing board with a larger surface area. It’s easier to press large projects when you’re not constantly shifting fabric around. If you’re tight on space, wall-mounted ironing boards or adjustable ironing boards with compact size are a great option.

2. Stability and Build
Wobbly boards? No thanks. A sturdy ironing board with double wishbone legs or traditional tube-frame construction helps keep everything solid. A locking safety latch adds extra peace of mind.

3. Height Adjustability
The height of the ironing board should match your comfort level. Adjustable height ironing tables are a great option to avoid back or neck strain during long quilting sessions.

4. Surface and Cover
You want a smooth surface with a heat-resistant, flame retardant ironing board cover. Look for ones with memory foam or even a conex heat resistant zone if you’re using steam irons or the best steam iron you can find.

5. Extra Features
Iron rest? Handy. Safe iron rest? Even better. Side shelves, retractable cord holders, or storage hooks can turn a good ironing board into a perfect tool. Some boards even double as 2-in-1 home ironing and cutting tables.

Here’s a bunch of ironing board ideas and layouts. It really is amazing what we can use and how we can go beyond the popup original board to make it work for our own personal sewing room or space.

Favorite Ironing Boards for Quilters

LB Home Ironing Board
If you need a reliable, full-size ironing board without breaking the bank, this is a great board to start with. It has a cotton cover, adjustable height, and works well with a dry iron or steam iron. Bonus: the lb iron board cover pad is machine washable.

Sullivans Better Board
This turns your standard ironing board into a larger surface area—perfect for quilt tops. It fits over your old ironing board and gives you ample space for big projects. It’s an ideal solution if you already have a good ironing board but need more room.

Savina Wool Pressing Pad
Not technically an ironing board, but this wool material mat gives you that firm, heat-reflective pressing zone. A great choice for small or in-progress blocks. Also works well on top of a sturdy board or table.

High-Quality Ironing Boards from Craft Stores & Home Depot
You can find some of the best things in unexpected places. Craft stores and even your local hardware store (yep, check Home Depot!) often carry a series of reliable ironing boards in different sizes and price points.

A Few Handy Tips

• Use a wool pressing mat on top of your large ironing board for extra crisp seams.
• A staple gun can help secure a new top or cover if you’re giving your board a DIY refresh.
• If your ironing board’s getting old, don’t wait for a replacement—sometimes a new board is a total game changer.

Whether you’re using a standard ironing board, upgrading to a large ironing board with ample space, or customizing your own setup with adjustable ironing boards and accessories, the goal is the same: create the perfect ironing experience for your sewing room.

So take a look around your sewing area.

Are you working with the right ironing board?

Or is it time for a little upgrade that will make your quilting even better?

Just in case here are some more helpful ironing boards and pressing posts:

• All about cordless irons
• How to clean your iron using magic eraser
• How to clean your iron with iron-off
• All about Oliso irons
• Best irons for quilters
• Must haves for any quilter to have at their ironing station

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