Clover Mini Iron II

At Christmas, I asked for and received the “Clover Mini Iron II - The Adapter” so I could more easily adhere glass facets, hot ribbons, and the like to some of my art quilts.

I had been using a standard iron for this but had encountered problems I knew the mini iron could fix. I like the mini iron although I had to overcome some unmet expectations. Hopefully this comparison list will be as helpful to you as it has been to me!

Mini iron:

less surface area than a standard, which is good because when using a variety of fabrics that accept varying heat levels, a standard iron can scorch one fabric while being just right for another.
so, if I adhere a glass facet to one spot, the mini iron won’t rest on an adjacent fabric that shouldn’t be heated to that high temperature.

Standard iron:

mine has a ceramic, non-stick, easy-glide soleplate that prevents scorching (on the same fabric at that temperature) and keeps fabric from sticking.
unfortunately, this mini iron doesn’t have this feature. Scorching is possible as well as sticking. Beware!

Mini iron:

although it has an on/off switch, it does NOT have an “auto off” feature like my standard iron.
additionally, the mini iron does have 3 temps (lo, med, hi) but does not have the modulating temperature control of the standard iron for different fabric types.
there’s some “trial & error” experience needed because each mini iron will likely vary in how much it heats (much like ovens).
it comes with a plastic stand to rest it on instead of just laying it on an ironing board or table. However, the iron gets very hot and can melt the stand if it’s not positioned properly. I’m still working out a better solution to this problem.
likewise, the metal arm that holds the tip gets VERY HOT. I accidentally burned myself on it quite easily.
this is NOT a tool for children or the absent-minded. When using it, I have to be very mindful and present — I really can’t be thinking about anything else!
to prevent scorching, I place a piece of cotton fabric between the iron and the art quilt — so the heat goes through but, if it is too hot, the art quilt is protected.
this mini iron accommodates attachments. I’ve not bought any yet and can’t say what they are or how they work. Maybe next time!