Question:

How do I mark the fabric?

Soap

Soap slivers work well for marking fabric. Only use plain soap that does not have added oils and moisturizers. The small bars of soap found in hotels work great. After you have used the soap until it is thin with sharp edges, let it dry out and use it for fabric marking. You can sharpen the edges with a razor blade or a nail file.

Tailor's Chalk

Tailor's chalk is a wax based marker. It comes in several colors, however, only white should be used in garment marking; the other colors are used for pattern and muslin marking. The wax markings will last longer than chalk and can be removed from some fabrics, with a warm iron. Be sure to test on a fabric scrap first.

Water-Erasable Pen

There are water-erasable marking pens. The ink in these pens is water soluble. Test on a scrap of fabric to make sure the ink does not stain and that water marks do not show. Remove the marks before ironing.

Dressmaker's Chalk

Dressmaker chalk is a clay chalk that comes in many colors. White is the safest and easiest for removal. Be sure to test on a fabric scrap before using to make it doesn't stain.

Tracing Paper

The tracing paper is placed between the fabric and pattern piece with the transfer color toward the fabric. A wheel is used to press down on the pattern marking to be transferred. Tracing paper comes in a variety of colors and the markings can be permanent. There are some newer tracing papers with removable markings.

Disappearing Ink Pen

Disappearing ink or air-erasable marking pens are great when you need to mark on the outside of the garment. These ink marks fade away with time. They will fade faster when it is hot and humid, so be careful that you don't lose your markings before you use them. The pen marks can be removed with water. Test for staining on a scrap of fabric.

Tracing Wheels

Tracing wheels come with smooth, serrated or stiletto edges. Serrated and stiletto edges are better for transferring markings. Use a smooth wheel when the fabric is extremely delicate.

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