The problem
A flat plank could not press the curved, fitted sleeves of women's clothing without creasing them.
The innovation
A narrow, curved, padded and reversible board mounted on collapsible supports.
How it worked
The narrow curved profile lets a sleeve slide over the board so both faces can be pressed without a fold.
Why it mattered
Made professional-quality garment pressing possible at home.
The legacy
The tapered shape of the modern ironing board is her design logic.
You use this today
The ironing board in the cupboard.
Sources
US Patent 473,653
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