DIY Network

Luke Air Force Base Luke Air Force Base From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-124

We might see ironing as a dreaded chore, but for some it is an exercise in direction and discipline. Here, Senior Airman Hilda Sturgill, Senior Airman Ranson Spurlock and Staff Sargent Nola Billups demonstrate ways to create and iron a crisp uniform. Several methods are used, including starch and wood glue.

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	Figure A
	Figure B

For sharp military creases, the crease area of the uniform is sometimes soaked with a mixture of one part wood glue to three parts water (figure A). The rest of the uniform is lightly sprayed with the mixture. Creases are ironed wet for the best results. Airmen also use a mixture of half starch, half water to create a fabric so stiff it can almost stand alone.

Crisp uniforms are a part of learning and discipline in the military (figure B). They help teach the airmen always to look professional, and they aid in teaching the discipline of following directions precisely. For men and women whose job it is to put aircraft in the air at a moment's notice, with lives possibly at stake, the ability to do even the simplest task precisely is extremely important.