THE CROWN Fluting Fluter Iron – Victorian - Era Laundry Device 1875 - 1880
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:102407 | Country/Region of Manufacture: United States |
THE CROWN Fluting Iron – Victorian-era laundry device 1875-80On behalf of an estate, I will be listing numerous fluting irons from a large collection. Many of these fluter irons have been either refinished, reconditioned or restored using period materials such as Japan Black lacquer and fine-art pigments. Each fluter iron has a clear, topcoat applied to protect the finish for another century. What a neat piece of history! Up for auction is this antique flut...ing iron. Embossed on the top side of the base are the brand name, CROWN and PAT. NOV 2, 1875; July 3, 1877 and reissued March 23, 1880. Embossed on the underside is the manufacturer: American Machine Co. Philadelphia, PA. The piece is adorned with gold and red bands hugging the base, while gold-tone embellishments can also be seen on the thin tension spring and side support arm.
This special model includes two sets of brass fluted barrels and its own heating rods. One wide set (15 pleats per revolution) was used for dress hemlines; the fine set (22 pleats per revolution) was used for delicate collars and cuffs. The rods were heated on a stove or fireplace, then inserted into fluting barrels. Damp, pre-starched fabric was then clamped between the (heated) barrels and hand-cranked to crimp pleats on fine garments of the day. There is a clamp on front to secure the fluting machine to a work surface. The rollers are separated by depressing the rear rocker arm and can be locked into this position to insert the fabric. Roller tension is adjusted by a brass knob over the top of the rollers.
Whether you place it on display as a remembrance of yesteryear or as a gift to a special friend, this fluter iron will surely be admired for its unique charm and condition. This is an attractive primitive household device that still works. Fluting irons are one of the most interesting types of antique pressing irons ever invented. These vintage tools were an invention that saw their heyday in America from the 1860's through the 1880's. Some rare and unusual fluting irons were made right into the 1920's for the movie & costume industry. Measurements: 8 inches tall and 8 3/4 inches wide and 5 3/4 inches deepBrass Fluter Rollers: 6 inches wideWeight: 14 lbs with both sets of fluter rollers, 2 heating rods and careful packing Please review the detailed photographs closely as they are part of the overall description; and also, good luck bidding.
This special model includes two sets of brass fluted barrels and its own heating rods. One wide set (15 pleats per revolution) was used for dress hemlines; the fine set (22 pleats per revolution) was used for delicate collars and cuffs. The rods were heated on a stove or fireplace, then inserted into fluting barrels. Damp, pre-starched fabric was then clamped between the (heated) barrels and hand-cranked to crimp pleats on fine garments of the day. There is a clamp on front to secure the fluting machine to a work surface. The rollers are separated by depressing the rear rocker arm and can be locked into this position to insert the fabric. Roller tension is adjusted by a brass knob over the top of the rollers.
Whether you place it on display as a remembrance of yesteryear or as a gift to a special friend, this fluter iron will surely be admired for its unique charm and condition. This is an attractive primitive household device that still works. Fluting irons are one of the most interesting types of antique pressing irons ever invented. These vintage tools were an invention that saw their heyday in America from the 1860's through the 1880's. Some rare and unusual fluting irons were made right into the 1920's for the movie & costume industry. Measurements: 8 inches tall and 8 3/4 inches wide and 5 3/4 inches deepBrass Fluter Rollers: 6 inches wideWeight: 14 lbs with both sets of fluter rollers, 2 heating rods and careful packing Please review the detailed photographs closely as they are part of the overall description; and also, good luck bidding.
