How To · Fashion · Grooming Basics
How to Fold and Store Ties Without Creasing Them
A tie's lifespan depends entirely on how you store it. Learn the roll method—the only technique that keeps silk, wool, and cotton ties wrinkle-free between wears.
5 min read · IrisTies are fragile. The fabric—whether silk, wool, or linen—wrinkles easily under pressure, and creases set permanently if left long enough. Most men fold ties in half or coil them around their fingers, both of which create hard creases that are nearly impossible to remove without professional steaming.
The roll method eliminates creasing entirely by distributing the tie's weight evenly and storing it in a neutral position. It takes less than two minutes per tie and works for every weight and weave. Once you've rolled a handful, you'll never fold again.
A tie stored flat or coiled develops a permanent crease within weeks. Rolling keeps it supple and ready to wear.
What you'll need.
- 01Flat surface (bed, table, or ironing board)
- 02Your hands
- 03Drawer or storage box
- 04Tie rack or hanger
- 05Optional: steamer for quick refresh
Step one · 1 minute
Lay the tie flat on a clean surface
Spread the tie lengthwise on a bed, table, or ironing board with the wide end on your left and the narrow end on your right. Smooth out any existing wrinkles with your hand. Make sure the tie is completely flat—no bunching or folding. The seam should face down for silk ties.
Use a clean surface to avoid picking up dust or lint that will stick to the fabric.
Step two · 1 minute
Fold the wide end toward the center
Fold the wide end of the tie inward about 2 inches, creating a long, narrow strip. The fold should be gentle and loose—you're not creasing, just creating a guide. Keep the fold parallel to the tie's length. This narrows the overall width and prepares it for rolling.
Avoid pressing hard into the fold. A soft crease is fine here since it will disappear when the tie is rolled.
Step three · 2 minutes
Roll from the wide end tightly but gently
Starting at the wide end, roll the tie toward the narrow end in a firm, even spiral. Keep the roll tight enough to stay compact but loose enough that you can still press gently without resistance. The goal is a cylinder about 2 inches in diameter. Roll slowly and adjust as you go to ensure even tension throughout.
If the roll feels too loose, unroll and start again. A sloppy roll will develop creases as it sits.
Step four · 1 minute
Secure the narrow end through the roll
As you finish rolling, tuck the narrow end through the center of the roll to lock it in place. The tie should stay rolled without any rubber bands, clips, or ties. If the narrow end won't stay tucked, your roll is too loose—unroll and try again with slightly more tension.
Never use rubber bands or hair ties. They create permanent creases and damage delicate silk over time.
Step five · 1 minute
Store rolls vertically or horizontally in a drawer
Place rolled ties in a drawer, shelf, or small box. Vertical storage (standing the rolls upright like coins) saves space and prevents pressure creases. Horizontal storage (laying rolls flat) also works well. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of rolled ties, and keep them away from direct sunlight, which fades color over time.
A small cedar block in the drawer keeps ties fresh and deters moths without adding scent to the fabric.
Step six · As needed
Unroll and hang the tie 24 hours before wearing
Remove the tie from storage and hang it on a tie rack, hanger, or doorknob for at least 24 hours before wearing. Gravity will naturally relax any minor compression marks from storage. If the tie has been rolled for months, a 48-hour hang is ideal. This step ensures the tie looks sharp when you put it on.
If you're in a rush, a quick pass with a steamer (held 6 inches away) will refresh a tie in 30 seconds.
How to know it works
A properly rolled and stored tie will unroll without creases, wrinkles, or compression marks. The fabric should feel supple and the knot should tie smoothly without resistance. If you see permanent creases or the fabric feels stiff, the roll was too tight or the tie was stored under pressure.
Questions at the mirror.
My tie won't stay rolled. The narrow end keeps coming loose.
Your roll is too loose. Unroll and start again, applying slightly more tension as you spiral. The roll should feel firm but not rigid. Practice on an inexpensive tie first to get the tension right.
I see a crease down the middle of my tie after storing it rolled.
The roll was too tight or stored under pressure. Loosen your rolling technique and avoid stacking items on top of rolled ties. Hang the tie for 48 hours to relax the crease.
Can I use a tie clip or rubber band to keep the roll tight?
No. Clips and bands create permanent creases and damage silk fibers. The narrow end tucked through the roll is sufficient and reversible.
How long can I store a tie rolled before it develops creases?
Indefinitely, if stored correctly. Rolled ties won't develop creases from storage alone. Hang the tie for 24 hours before wearing to relax any minor compression marks from the roll itself.