The best marking pens for quilting provide accurate results and come off easily. If you’re confused about which marking pen or tool to use, you’ve come to the right place!
Avoid the common mistake quilters make when marking their quilts with permanent pens and keep your entire creation safe by choosing the right marking pens for quilting.
Today, I will review some of the best-selling marking pens for quilting to help you make the right choice. But first, let’s talk about different types of marking tools you can use.
Types of Marking Tools for Quilting
If you don’t have any experience with the mark-then-cut method, you’re probably confused about which marking tool to use. The following guide will help you decide.
Chalk
Chalk is fairly easy to use, affordable and marks usually come out of fabric. This tool comes in different colors for different fabrics. However, it comes with a few small disadvantages.
Sometimes, heat can set chalk marks. Also, marks can rub off easily before you need them. If you choose chalk, expect a thick line. It’s difficult to utilize chalk on stretchy or slippery fabrics.
Chalk marks can get dull after a lot of marking (sharpen up the edge with a butter knife). They also break easily. Chalk is ideal for projects utilizing cotton. Or other medium weight fabrics.
Chalk Wheel/Chaco Pen
I love the chalk wheel. It has all the benefits of chalk. However, it comes in a roller that makes a thin and clear line. It doesn’t get resistance from fabric. Thus, it’s perfect for tricky fabrics.
It also produces a pleasant sound and doesn’t break easily like regular chalk. But just like regular chalk, it rubs off easily. Also, it needs to be refilled periodically and can be hard to find. It’s the perfect choice for marking tricky fabrics like silk or jersey. Or for markings, you plan to sew ASAP.
Erasable Ink Pen
Make sure to purchase the type of erasable ink pen for fabric, not paper. Dritz and Clover make ink pens in blue or purple. They wash off with water and provide long-lasting results.
They last longer than chalk. What I like most about this tool is the tip. It makes marking simpler. Also, it’s easier to view than chalk. At times, marks don’t wash off all the way. Also, they create a thicker line than chalk markers. If you want a long-lasting, clear mark, opt for erasable ink pens.
Disappearing Ink Pen
You will love disappearing ink pens because their ink goes away after some time. These pens make clear markings. They’re easy to utilize and don’t require manual removal.
They will fade on their own. Thus, they’re not suitable for marking a project that takes time to complete. Sometimes, they don’t fade entirely. They’re ideal for quick marks as you work.
Thread Marking/Talor’s Tracks
This tool is ideal for marking on the fabric where other methods don’t work such as embroidered fabric, fine fabrics, lace, sequined fabrics, etc. It doesn’t leave much residue on projects.
Also, it’s not affected by the heat. However, it’s time-consuming! It can leave holes in extra fine fabrics. Additionally, thread in sewn places can get stuck in stitching and needs to be picked out.
It’s great for specialty fabrics and marking things like pocket placement in the center of a garment where other tools leave marks. Or grainline. Experiment with these tools and make your pick.
How to Use Marking Pens for Quilting Right?
When utilizing marker pens for quilting, you should follow certain rules if you want to keep your projects damage-free and safe. Follow the next tips and protect your projects!
Read Instructions
Always read and follow the instructions on the package. Some tools react in bizarre ways to water or hot iron. This will help you prevent situations that can damage your projects.
Always Run a Test
I suggest running your pen over different types of materials you utilize and try to take it off. Repeat it for all different materials. They might respond differently to different materials.
Take Your Time
Learn how to balance the line between pressing your tool and digging it deep into your materials. If your tool has a fine point, it might just damage your fabric, if you’re not gentle.
What Are the Best Marking Pens for Quilting?
If you want to mark your fabric without ruining it, you will need a marking pen. Fabric marking pens for quilting come in different colors. It depends on your needs which color you choose.
However, when looking for the best marking pens for quilting, look no further than Pilot, Clover, Dritz, or Sewline. They’re known for their ease of utilizing, excellent results, and affordability.
- Best Overall: PILOT FriXion Erasable & Refillable Gel Ink Stick Pens
“Great tool for quilting, thermosensitive gel ink formula, unlimited do-overs, time-saving marking tools.” - Best Budget: 12 PACK Disappearing Ink Marking Pen
“Wipe the mark off with water whenever you’re done, 12 pens, the best pen for marking quilting lines.” - Best Purple: CLOVER Purple Fine Air Erasable Marker with Eraser
“Markings disappear quickly, fine point purple marker, it doesn’t leave stains on fabric, easily visible.” - Best Blue: Dritz 676-60 Mark-B-Gone Marking Pen
“Washes away thoroughly, easily removed with a damp cloth, handy little washable pen, affordable.” - Best Mechanical Pencil: Fons & Porter 7757 Mechanical Fabric Pencil Set
“Easy to use and remove, works on different surfaces, utilize to make fine lines, great for dark fabrics.” - Best for Dark Fabrics: Sewline White Ceramic Lead Fabric Pencil
“A modern way of drafting on fabrics, easily removed from most fabrics, works like a charm, affordable.” - Best for Light-Colored Fabrics: Dritz 700 The Fine Line Marking Pen
“The marker works well on light-colored fabrics, easily removed with plain water, thin and precise lines.” - Best Gel Ink Pens: PILOT FriXion Point Erasable & Refillable Gel Ink Pens
“Easy erasable marks for quilting and sewing, thermosensitive gel ink formula, point tip for fine lines.” - Best Marker: CLOVER Hera Marker
“Tracing spatula, perfect for sewing and quilting, easy to handle, a “must-have” for passionate quilters.” - Best Set: Pilot Frixion Erasable Gel Pen
“Erases completely and quickly, perfect for marking fabrics, genius design with the retractable clicker.”
Best Marking Pens for Quilting Comparison Chart
It’s important to buy the best marking pens for quilting. The right tool will make precise marks that wash off easily. The following chart contains favorites you’re sure to enjoy!
Top 15 Best Marking Pens for Quilting Reviews
Some marking pens make a fain mark behind permanently while others damage the fabric when you try to remove them. And the ink in some pens comes back later to ruin your quilts.
However, don’t worry! I’m here to help. I have extensively researched the topic to find the best marking pens for quilting out there. They’re visible, easy to use, and don’t ruin the fabric.
PILOT FriXion Erasable & Refillable Gel Ink Stick Pens
(Best Overall)
If you’re looking for erasable and refillable stick pens, look no further than Pilot. It combines the Pilot’s erasable thermosensitive gel ink with the smooth writing of a gel.
I love these pens because they’re long-lasting, write smooth, and erase clean. You will get various colors including blue, red, black, orange, pink, purple, brown, and lime ink.
They’re also suitable for bullet journal spreads. These pens allow you to write and mark fearlessly. This brand makes impressive marking instruments to meet your needs.
Key Features:
- Pilot frixion ball
- No residue or debris
- Thermosensitive gel ink formula
- Erasable and refillable
- Unlimited do-overs
- Trusted quality
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Time-saving marking tools
- Great tool for quilting
Cons
- Cheap, slippery exterior
- They stop working after a few weeks
- Colors change over time
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Pilot |
| Type: | Erasable and refillable gel ink pens |
| Amount per set: | 8 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Black, brown, lime, orange, purple, pink, red, blue |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
CLOVER Purple Fine Air Erasable Marker with Eraser
(Best Purple Marking Pen for Quilting)
Clover purple fine air erasable marker with an eraser is perfect for quilters. It’s suitable for any sewing task that requires marking for cutting or before stitching. It disappears easily.
Or with water. The best part? It includes a convenient eraser that’s helpful for quick corrections. Also, it makes a great choice for planning your sewing projects. It performs equally well on dark and light fabric. The air erasable option gives ample time, 4 to 14 days to complete the details.
The cap keeps the market in place. I’ve utilized this market for quilts and I can’t say enough about it. It’s one of the best marker pens for quilting. You can easily erase with the eraser.
Also, if you leave it on over for five hours, it vanishes by itself. Therefore, don’t mark your project unless you plan to sew or cut it fast. Also, it lasts longer than other markers I’ve tried so far.
Key Features:
- Fine point purple marker
- Eraser end for quick corrections
- Markings disappear quickly
Pros
- It disappears super quickly
- The immediate erase is perfect
- The marking tip is small so it makes a visible but not an overwhelming mark
- A perfect pen for marking quilt lines
- Doesn’t leave stains on fabric
Cons
- Markings disappear in hours
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Clover |
| Type: | Air erasable marker with eraser |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Purple |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Clover White Marking Fine Pen
This white marker is ideal for marking on dark colored fabrics. As the ink dries on the fabric, your white markings will become more visible. They’re also easily erased with heat from ironing.
Or when washed. I’ve used this marker for quilts and I have no complaints about it. It does take a couple of seconds to appear. However, I find that it works exceptionally well for marking quilting lines.
Or sewing lines on dark fabrics. All you have to do afterward is iron your fabric and they’re gone! It has a great price and makes a perfect tool for passionate quilters. It’s great for hand quilting too!
Key Features:
- Made in Japan
- Easily erased with heat from ironing or when washed
- Suitable for dark-colored fabrics
Pros
- Doesn’t run out quickly
- Excellent marker when used properly
- It makes a lovely fine line
Cons
- Not suitable for leather
- Doesn’t work on all fabrics
- Takes a minute to appear
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Clover |
| Type: | White marking fine pen |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | White |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Fons & Porter 7757 Mechanical Fabric Pencil Set
(Best Mechanical Pencil for Marking)
This fabric pencil is a washable fine lead mechanical pencil with a soft grip for comfort. It’s a great choice for quilters who’re looking for pencils made from water-soluble dyes.
The durable ceramic 0.9mm white lead is specially made for fabric. This pencil is great for dark fabrics. It disappears easily with water, eraser, or damp cloth. What I like most about this product is that it delivers fine lines that erase or wash out. You will also receive 10 white refill leads.
It works on paper, wood, fabric, and chalkboard surfaces. The best part? It’s super smooth and the white appears clearly. Also, it doesn’t chip when I trace around a quilting template.
The lead is the perfect thickness. It’s not too fine or too bold. It’s just right. If you’re looking for a durable and sturdy pencil for quilting, look no further than this mechanical pencil.
Key Features:
- Great for dark fabrics
- Utilize to create fine lines
- One of the best chalk marking pens for quilting
- Includes 10 white refill leads
- Easy to use and remove
Pros
- Great on black quilting cotton
- No broken lead and consistent sharpening
- Perfect for marking quilt pieces
Cons
- Difficult to remove
- The lead breaks if you press too hard
- Doesn’t work on all fabrics
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Fons & Porter |
| Type: | Mechanical fabric pencil |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | White |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Sewline Mechanical Fabric Pencil Lead Refill
This mechanical fabric pencil lead refill by Sewline is suitable for drafting on fabrics. It’s easily removable with a polymer eraser or dabbed off with cool water.
The set includes 3 black, 3 white, and 3 pink 0.9mm fabric pencil lead refills. The pencil is made in Japan. And it’s one of the best mechanical fabric pencils I’ve ever tried.
I’ve been quilting for years and have tried just about everything. This pencil marks clearly and disappears easily. The best part? The lead refill pack is reasonably-priced.
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality pencil, look no further than Sewline. It delivers a nice line. Comes out clear and erases without damaging your work.
Key Features:
- 3 white, 3 black, and 3 pink 0.9mm fabric pencil lead refills
- Easily removable with a polymer eraser or washed off with water
- Durable ceramic leads specially created for drafting on fabrics
Pros
- Great value for money
- A great selection of color
- Great for painting too!
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Sewline |
| Type: | Mechanical fabric pencil |
| Amount per set: | 3 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | White, black, pink |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Dritz 676-60 Mark-B-Gone Marking Pen
(Best Blue Marking Pen for Quilting)
The Dritz marking pen is utilized to transfer pattern marking, quilting designs, and needlecraft. It’s not recommended only for dry clean fabric. This pen contains water-soluble ink.
Therefore, it’s easily removed with a damp cloth. You will get one color per package. They’re available in different colors. The best part? It has a fine tip for apparel pattern making, quilting designs, construction notations, etc. It shows up well against the fabric and washes out with ease.
Key Features:
- Water-soluble marking pen
- Easily removed with a damp cloth
- Available in different colors
Pros
- Washes away thoroughly
- The fine tip makes marking easy
- Handy little washable pen
Cons
- The point is too fine for the large bedspread-sized quilts
- Normally, misting the marks with water will make them disappear, but this one comes back
- Hard to see on certain fabric colors, but works well on most
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Dritz |
| Type: | Water-soluble marking pen |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Blue |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
12 PACK Disappearing Ink Marking Pen
(Best Budget)
If you’re searching for a water erasable pen that can write on the fabric surface and is especially utilized for 11CT/14CT cross stitch, needlework, or needlecraft for temporary marking.
This disappearing ink marking pen is handy for temporary marking of design instructions or patterns on fabric which can then be erased by dipping in water. It’s user-friendly and versatile.
You can utilize this pen for crafts, dressmaking, embroidery, quilting, and temporary line-markings. It’s a water erasable marking pen available in purple, pink, and blue. You will get 12 pieces!
The water-soluble ink keeps the marks visible only when you need to view them. The pink takes 1-7 days to go away. However, you can also use water to wipe it off immediately.
The purple pen takes 2-14 days to fade. Or you can use water to wipe it off immediately. Lastly, the blue one comes off with water. Top-quality set that provides great value for money.
Key Features:
- 12 disappearing fabric markers
- Ink is erasable easily and quickly by water
- Water-soluble, fine point marking tools
Pros
- A great alternative to Dritz fabric marking pens
- Wipe the mark off with water whenever you’re done
- 12 marking pens, fine points, and a great price
Cons
- They don’t work with all fabrics
- The blue doesn’t disappear until you wipe with water
- They leave marks after washing
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Usfeel |
| Type: | Air-water erasable pen |
| Amount per set: | 12 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Blue |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Sewline White Ceramic Lead Fabric Pencil
(Best Fabric Pencil for Dark Fabrics)
This mechanical fabric pencil comes with special ceramic leads. It creates clear and clean lines that don’t require much effort to erase from most fabrics with the provided eraser.
You can also use a damp cloth. No more lines or messy chalk you can’t erase! If you purchase this pencil, you will get 4 lead colors including black, pink, green, and white. They work on most fabrics.
The best part? They’re easy to use! Just click down the eraser end to extend the lead and press lightly to draw lines. To erase lines, gently rub along lines. They’re also easy to refill. You will get 3 refills.
Just press down the eraser end to push the new lead. Always test on a piece of the fabric to ensure lines can be erased. It’s suggested to remove the lines before ironing your fabric.
Key Features:
- You will receive 6 free refills
- Easily removed from most fabrics with the eraser or washing
- A modern way of drafting on fabrics
Pros
- Lead lasts a long time
- One of the best white marking pens for quilting
- It works like a charm
Cons
- It doesn’t wash off easily
- It’s hard to see even on black fabric
- Doesn’t work on all fabrics
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Sewline |
| Type: | Ceramic lead fabric pencil |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | White |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Dritz 700 The Fine Line Marking Pen
(Best Marking Pen for Light-Colored Fabrics)
If you’re looking for a water erasable marking pen to transfer sewing pattern markings and other details directly onto the fabric, look no further than Dritz the fine line marking pen.
What I like most about this pen is the pinpoint tip. It provides a super fine, bright purple line that comes off easily with plain water. It’s perfect for crafts, embroidery, quilting, and sewing.
This marking pen is suitable for marking light fabrics. It’s one of my favorite ways of marking quilt tops. It doesn’t take much time and effort to erase. It disappears with exposure to air.
Key Features:
- Thin and precise lines
- It’s easily removed with plain water
- For marking light fabrics
Pros
- Erases easily and completely
- The marker works well on light-colored fabrics
- It works on different fabrics
Cons
- Fades too fast
- Marks disappear with water but come back when dry
- Bleeds between threads
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Dritz |
| Type: | Water erasable marking pen |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Pinpoint |
| Color: | Blue |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
CLOVER White Chaco Liner
I’ve tried many markers throughout the years and I can say that this one works exceptionally well. It’s a perfect choice for making temporary lines for cutting or hemming.
And fabrics like felt that won’t take a pencil. However, it’s not suitable for free motion quilting because it rubs off easily when moving the quilt around. It’s perfect for marking quilts.
I would recommend any quilter to buy it. Makes a nice thin line that brushes off easily. It works perfectly for quilting projects that require marking but don’t last for very long.
Key Features:
- Fine point pen
- Perfect for marking dark fabrics
- Made of plastic
Pros
- Easy to utilize
- Brushes away easily
- Thin but perfectly visible lines
- It does a great job on dark fabrics
- Lovely narrow chalk line
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Has a wheel one way only, if you try rolling the wrong way it pulls you fabric
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Clover |
| Type: | White Chaco liner |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | White |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
PILOT FriXion Point Erasable & Refillable Gel Ink Pens
(Best Gel Ink Pens for Marking)
Another excellent product by Pilot is its erasable and refillable gel ink pen for clean, precise lines. You can easily erase and rewrite repeatedly without causing damage.
The original thermosensitive gel ink formula disappears with erasing friction. This package packs 6 gel pens in different colors including purple, pink, green, red, blue, and black.
They’re perfect for marking on quilts. It’s also suitable for people who’re learning to ruler quilt and don’t want the ink to vanish. It comes off when ironed and will stay gone forever.
The only way that the marks show is if you put your quilt in the freezer. This set is budget-friendly, user-friendly, and practical. It’s also a great addition to the quilting world.
Key Features:
- Precision point tip for fine lines
- A set of 6 erasable and refillable gel ink pens
- Thermosensitive gel ink formula
Pros
- They erase with a hot iron
- Wonderful for sewing and quilting
- Easy erasable marks for quilting
Cons
- Very light ink
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Pilot |
| Type: | Erasable and refillable gel ink pens |
| Amount per set: | 6 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Purple, pink, green, red, blue, black |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
CLOVER Hera Marker
(Best Marker for Quilting)
Hera marker is one of the most popular marking tools in the quilting world. It’s easy to handle and works well for small projects and things that you complete right away.
This tool is a tracing spatula that allows you to apply pressure when marking on fabric. It’s ideal for both sewing and quilting. I was impressed by the simplicity and effectiveness of this tool.
It provides lines that don’t require much effort to follow for machine quilting. But here’s the kicker. They don’t take much effort to erase either. This marker is better than using a marking pen.
I’ve tried pens, chalk, and other marking tools, and this marker is the easiest and most effective by far. It doesn’t leave permanent marks because all it does is leave a crease.
Key Features:
- Tracing spatula
- Perfect for sewing and quilting
- Easy to handle
Pros
- Inexpensive marking tool for quilting
- Perfect for marking fabric without leaving colored markings to wash out
- A “must-have” for passionate quilters
Cons
- The mark disappears too quickly
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Clover |
| Type: | Marker |
| Amount per set: | 1 |
| Tip: | Spatula |
| Color: | Not specified |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Sewing Mark Chalk Pencil Tailor’s Marking and Tracing Tools
If you’re looking for an old school marking tool, look no further than this set. This type of marking pencil is a free cutting design without any need for a knife to cut.
Just tear the paper roll and the cartridge will come out. They’re great for marking on wood, paper, cloth, plastic, etc. The set is ideal for domestic sewing and tailoring.
Key Features:
- Works on different surfaces
- 6 user-friendly marking tools in different colors
- Makes your marking much easier
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- They work better than most markers
- Easy to mark on fabrics
Cons
- Greasy fabric markers
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Outman |
| Type: | Chalk pencil tailor’s marking and tracing tools |
| Amount per set: | 6 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Red, white, blue, yellow, green, black |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
PILOT FriXion Ball Erasable & Refillable Gel Ink Stick Pens
This set of erasable and refillable gel ink stick pens provide a super thin line. They wash off with water. I’ve tried them for quilting and they work great. The best part?
They iron off easily. You can use these pens for sewing, quilting, and all-around crafts. Once you’re done, just iron and the ink disappears. They’re budget-friendly and versatile.
Unless you put your fabric into the freezer, the marks won’t come back. However, keep in mind that the ink runs out pretty quickly. However, the ease makes it well worth it.
Key Features:
- Fantastic for fabric marking
- Easily removed marking pens in 3 colors
- Erasable and refillable gel pens
Pros
- Great for quilting
- The easiest method of marking a quilt
- It disappears under heat
Cons
- The ink is very light
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Pilot |
| Type: | Erasable and refillable gel ink stick pens |
| Amount per set: | 3 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Black, blue, red |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Pilot Frixion Erasable Gel Pen
(Best Set of Marking Pens for Quilting)
I have saved the best for last! This set by Pilot is one of the most popular ones on the market. It packs 3 pens that write smoothly and erase cleanly without marks or smudges.
The ink that refills these pens is heat-sensitive, erasing with the friction from the included erasers. Their fine point is excellent for making thin lines. They’re perfect for marking quilts.
However, you can also use them for other projects. When you’re done, simply press your garment with a hot iron and the ink will vanish. It’s super-versatile and budget-friendly.
Key Features:
- Erasable, refillable, and retractable
- A set of 3 high-quality marking pens in different colors
- Fine point, easy to use and remove
Pros
- Wonderful for marking fabrics
- Genius design with the retractable clicker
- Erases completely and quickly
Cons
- They run out fast
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Pilot |
| Type: | Clicker erasable gel pen |
| Amount per set: | 3 |
| Tip: | Fine point |
| Color: | Black, blue, red |
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
Buying Guide: What Is the Best Marking Pencil for Quilting?
The best marking pens for quilting make precise marks and come off easily. When shopping for marking pens for quilting, consider the following factors to make a smart purchase!
Visibility
The marks you draw should be clear and visible so you can utilize them for reference. Therefore, opt for a marking pen that works with different materials and shows on any fabric.
Erasability
The best marker pens for quilting don’t require much time or effort when it comes to removal. Some of them even disappear on their own and don’t wrap the fabric or leave a residue.
Dissolution Medium
Some marking pencils can be removed with a damp cloth while others disappear on their own over time because they’re air-soluble. You can also use a pen that requires heat to disappear.
Strength
The marking pens for quilting should be durable and strong enough for their nib to perform on different fabrics. Make sure to buy a marking pen with sturdy construction and a sharp point.
Longevity
Some marking pens for quilting only last for a couple of days or weeks. I highly recommend investing in high-quality marking pens for quilting that can at least last a couple of months.
How Do You Mark Quilting Lines on Dark Fabric?
I utilize plain chalk and a small hand pencil sharpener. If you opt for this marking tool, always keep your chalk sharp so you can stay close to the ruler. It performs amazingly!
You can utilize chalk to make your black and dark to medium materials. It doesn’t take much effort to wash off when you’re done. It’s simple, easy, and budget-friendly.
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
How Do You Mark a Quilt for Free Motion Quilting?
Marking isn’t my favorite part of the quiltmaking process. Although I’m a free-motion quilter and doing this is rare, sometimes, I’m facing times when only a marked pattern will do.
For instance, when I want a fairly formal quilted pattern in a quilt created with applique or pieced blocks and plain alternate blocks. I have found ways you can mark without marking.
Tape
If you want to quilt a grid of straight lines, you can utilize a painter’s tape. Simply lay strips of tape to the side of where you prefer your quilting lines. Then, stitch next to the tape.
You can also utilize masking tape but the painter’s take is easier to take off. If you’re utilizing a painter’s tape, pat it against the garment before applying it on your quilt. It will pick up a bit of lint, making it easy to remove and less sticky. If you don’t like using tape, use stencils and chalk.
Stencils and Chalk
You can use both commercially or handmade stencils and chalk but don’t mark your whole quilt surface with chalk. Otherwise, most of the chalk will rub off when you move the quilt.
I highly recommend marking one block or small space at a time. Another great solution is paper. You can mark your quilt utilizing tissue paper. You will be surprised by the final results.
Watch this video to get the in-depth information:
How Do You Mark a Quilt for Straight Line Quilting?
Straight-line quilting requires practice to get those lines straight. I’ve listed a few proven ways you can make your quilt for straight-line quilting and get perfect results every time!
Mark Straight Lines Utilizing Tape
This is one of the oldest straight-line quilting marking tools used by quilters. In this technique, you utilize long pieces of tape to mark the straight lines, utilizing a ruler as a pointer.
Then, utilize your tape as a guide as you quilt along the edge of it. You can utilize masking tape, painter’s tape, or even packing tape. Also, re-utilize the same strip multiple times.
If your tape doesn’t stick to the fabric fairly well, it can move around a bit. Marking straight lines utilizing tape is most suitable for smaller projects such as baby quilts or mini quilts.
Mark Straight Lines Utilizing a Fabric Pen
I utilize fabric pens to mark straight lines and other quilting lines for that matter at times. However, you need to be careful when marking your materials with fabric pens.
Some pens will leave long-lasting marks on materials. This is why running a test on the materials before marking all your lines is recommended. Also, opt for a pen that’s easy to remove.
You can choose from pens that fade on their own over period and pens that require heat to disappear. You can also opt for a pen that washes off utilizing lukewarm water.
Mark Straight Lines Utilizing a Hera Marker
Hera marker is often utilized by professional quilters because it’s affordable, provides great results, and washes off easily. It’s also one of my favorite marking tools for quilting!
It’s a piece of durable plastic that you can utilize to make temporary creases in your material. This tool is nothing like a pen. It doesn’t leave long-lasting markings. It’s also easy to utilize.
Utilizing a ruler as a pointer, press your Hera marker along the side of the ruler. Add a bit of pressure to mark your lines. Make sure that you’re working on a smooth surface like a table.
Or cutting mat. Or a hard floor. The marker won’t perform well on soft surfaces such as rugs or carpets. Also, it’s simpler to make straight lines in natural light so you can see clearly.
Mark Straight Lines Utilizing Your Walking Foot Guide
Utilizing a walking foot guide is another great way to mark straight lines. It slips into the walking foot so you can adjust it to the dimensions of your lines.
Stitch your first straight line utilizing the edge of the quilt surface or a line of seams as your guide. Then, utilize that as your new guide. Redo through your quilt.
However, keep in mind that walking foot guides can break easily. If this happens to you, simply tape the walking foot guide onto the walking foot itself at the preferred width.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has helped you pick the best marking pens for quilting for your needs. Armed with these high-quality pens, you can finally mark your projects with confidence.
If you’re looking for a decent marking tool for dark fabrics, choose between Sewline White Ceramic Lead Fabric Pencil and Clover White Marking Fine Pen. They’re easy to use and erase.
However, if you want a marking tool for light-colored fabrics, Dritz 700 The Fine Line Marking Pen makes a great choice for your needs. CLOVER Hera Marker is also popular among quilters.
What’s your opinion on today’s article? Have you ever used any of the marker pens for quilting reviewed in this buying guide? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments!
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