psquared52

I' ve used chalk when fmq'ing on dark fabrics with dark thread. I just rub it lightly across the surface I'm working on. It breaks up the solid dark and gives some contrast so I can actually see the stitching. I'd HIGHLY suggest you find WASHABLE chalk if you use it to mark your quilts. It is a little dusty initially but I always wash my quilts before gifting them and have never had any issue with chalk residue.

tatteredgarden

I use a small air compressor to blow the chalk marks away.

silverfoxmag

Thanks for all the good tips using chalk as a marker!

w1613s

Consider getting that chalk point with a piece of finer grade sandpaper or whatever grade you can "liberate" in the garage. No really rough, though. Pointed point; wedge point; they all have good things to say for themselves and work well for quilting. Who ever knew Mechanical Drawing in school was going to be great for quilting and for date getting. Dad never considered that. Bet I'd have been taking more math instead. That's been useful for quilting and dating too. Poor Dad.

Pat

Carol34446

Thanks for the tip on colored chalk. What do you use on white/light fabrics, would some color besides blue work?

Onebyone

I use chalk pencils. Easier to sharpen, erases off, and comes in many colors I've never had to use blue. I use yellow or white.

cmputerdazed

Oh, this is all good to know.

MargeD

That's a great tip, I'll have to look for some the next time I'm out, as I sometimes have trouble marking on darker fabrics. Thanks also to those QB members who say to only use the white chalk and not the colored chalk.

JanieH

Good advice on the chalk, both white and colored, and ways to remove it.
This board is the best!

madamekelly

after you put them in the sock, give it several solid taps with a hammer to make it work better.