Fabric marking tools come in handy whether you are sewing a garment, home décor project or are making a quilt. There are many different kinds on the market today, but here are some things to consider when selecting one.
First, it is important to know if you are going to need temporary or permanent marks on you fabric before you choose a marking tool. In most cases, if you need a temporary mark you will need to buy a marking tool from a craft store that is made to be removed. While you may be able to erase regular pencil from paper, doing so on fabric does not usually work and can permanently mar the fabric.
Whether you are using a temporary chalk, lead, ink or some other kind of marking tool, it is important to know what method is needed to remove the mark. You can try out all temporary marking tools on a scrap piece of the same kind of fabric being used in a project to ensure it removes completely.
Some fabric marking tools simply fade away over time, while others wash away or are removed with the heat or steam of an iron. When selecting a fabric marking tool, it is good to consider what kind of fabric it is going to be used on. For example, you wouldn’t want to use a wash away marker on a project that you don’t intent to wash, or an iron off ink on a fabric that can’t be ironed.
Whether you are new to sewing or are a seasoned pro, it’s always a good idea to have several different marking tools on hand. This way you are sure to have the right tool for the job no matter what kind of fabric you work with.
Happy sewing!
You might also be interested in:
Marking Tools and Pressing Tools
Essential Sewing Tools and Supplies
Ask for advice!
Is there a temporary marker besides chalk, which wears away too easily, that is white or a very light color to be used on darker fabrics?
Hello Karen!
That’s a great question!
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A sliver of soap works great.
I use a piece of bath soap to remove hot iron.
In the miter corner video, the instructor marked the lines with “iron off ink”. What a great idea! I’ve looked on Amazon & JoAnn fabric, can’t find it. Can you give me info on the actual name & where I might find it? Thanks, Jane
It was most likely a Pilot Frixion pen or highlighter. These are in the office supplies area of a regular store. Some LQSs also carry them. Just don’t use them on a part of the fabric that will show, because it will leave a “ghost” mark. But in seam allowances, to trace patterns, marking pattern piece numbers on the wrong side of fabric etc, they are great.
Go to Love Sew on the internet. They are great!
I like to have the best tools for the job in hand