How to use a fabric shaver and prevent damage
If bobbles are all over your favourite knits, you need one of the best fabric shavers. While it might sound like a radical solution, a fabric shaver removes only the top layer of fabric from knitted clothes, taking away any pilling with it. It’s a genius way to revitalise your winter wardrobe. And these tools don’t stop there – you can use a fabric shaver on all kinds of items, such as furniture, curtains and even towels.
While these are handy tools and the results they produce are very satisfying, it’s essential that you use them correctly. Otherwise, you could end up damaging the item you’re treating – or even cut a hole in it; not ideal when you’re dealing with expensive knitwear. To help guide you, we’ve listed our top tips for using a fabric shaver here, including advice on settings, attachments and method.
1. Choose the right kind of fabric shaver
If you’re new to fabric shavers, you should know there’s two types to choose from; electric and manual.
Electric fabric shavers are typically rechargeable or powered via batteries. The shape of these can vary somewhat, but they’re all handheld devices which contain internal blades for shaving fabric. A container is attached to collect the lint as you go, and some can feature multiple settings and attachments to suit alternative fabrics. These are more convenient for treating larger areas or multiple items because they require less manual effort. But, they are naturally the more expensive option. They’re also bulkier to store and easier to tear with when in use.
Manual fabric shavers, on the other hand, tend to have a roller or comb design which pulls away any pilling. You use them almost like a razor blade as they’re dragged over the surface. They require more effort than electric – with additional swipes often needed as well as the time to pick up any excess lint yourself (although some models can help with this), but they’re generally the cheaper option and can work just as well.
The best type of fabric shaver for you will depend on your use and preferences. For regular or large-scale use, go with electric, but for small one-off jobs, manual will be more than sufficient.
2. Prep the space
Removing pilling is a delicate process. You won’t want to be disturbed, so make sure you’re unlikely to be knocked or startled. Find a space that offers plenty of light so you can clearly see the extent of the bobbling. You’ll also need a flat, even and supportive surface, on which your garments are unlikely to move. Finally, you should be able to access it easily and comfortably.
GHI Tip: Check if other items in your wardrobe could be refreshed with a fabric shaver before you start.
3. Use the right settings and attachments
Read over the manufacturer’s instructions before you start using your fabric shaver. It may come with multiple attachments and settings to suit different kinds of material. For instance, the Gleener Ultimate Bobble Remover Fabric Shaver comes with three head attachments to suit bulky, medium and delicate fabric-types, while the Philips Fabric Shaver GC026 features a safety cap for treating delicate fabrics. There may be more than one power setting available as well. Make sure your device is set up to suit your garment, otherwise, it can lead to unintended wear and damage. Some may not be suitable for more delicate fabrics, such as cashmere, so check the recommended use before you start.
4. Best method for fabric shaving
Once your item is secure and placed on a flat, even surface, you need to hold it taut with one hand while using your fabric shaver in the other. While you’re holding it taut to keep the material from bunching, take care not to stretch it too much and cause damage in the process.
For an electric fabric shaver, glide it gently over the bobbled surface, working in small circles, gradually increasing the pressure, until you achieve the desired result. Keep an eye on the lint bin as you work; this can fill quickly and will need emptying between uses. You may need to rotate and adjust the item to work on its sides – only covering the front and back can leave bobbles in the seams. Pilling tends to occur wherever there’s friction, so for a typical jumper, check under the arms, down the sides and around the lower back. You may need to do the edges as well to make it look as good as new.
If you’re using a manual fabric shaver, carefully sweep it over the surface in short swipes, taking care not to put too much pressure on the item in the process. Take the time to remove the loose lint yourself every few sweeps, so you can better see any remaining pilling. If you ever spot bobbles on an item while you’re travelling, you can use the same method with a manual razor, should you choose. Although, you should ideally stick to a designated fabric shaver to avoid accidental damage.
Try not to run the fabric shaver where it’s not needed, although it may be necessary to even out the look on darker knits.
GHI Tip: You can use a pair of rubber gloves to easily pick up loose lint from items.
5. Take full advantage
You can use a fabric shaver on most garments (do check the instructions), so long as the surface is flat and free from embellishments or loose threads. As mentioned earlier, you need to make sure you’re using the relevant attachments and power setting. In extremely delicate cases, you can always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Fabric shavers have more uses than you’d think. These devices can be used to refresh your coats, blankets, bedding and even curtains. So, make sure you’re taking full advantage of your device.
6. How to prevent pilling in the future
Pilling is caused by friction as the surface of the fabric rubs and comes loose. This is why there’s often bobbling under the arms on jumpers. You can’t exactly change your habits to prevent this in the future. But, you can give the fabric a layer of protection with fabric softener. Fabric softener applies a waxy coating on the surface, which prevents the material from bobbling so easily. You can add this via your washing machine, or by hand while you’re washing your delicates.
Avoid using softener on your woollens, though – the residue it leaves behind hampers the breathability.
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