Quilting Tools, Tips, & Timesavers #3

There are lots of marking tools available for quilters, but the one I use most is the Chaco Liner Marker by Clover.  It’s sold in both regular and slim size.  You are given numerous color choices:  white, pink, blue, and yellow.

The Chaco liners contain loose chalk powder that is refillable.  A metal chalk wheel glides across your fabric, leaving a thin chalk line.

After your stitching is complete, you simply dust the powder off with your hand or a soft cloth. I’ve never experienced any trouble removing the chalk lines nor having them stain my fabric.

I love using the Chaco liner for grid lines and other simple quilting designs.  Additionally, it comes in handy for those quick diagonal lines you mark on your quilt binding tails and half-square or quarter-square triangles, making all these techniques quick and easy.  The white marker is a permanent member of my catch-all sewing tray, but the other colors are always within easy reach.

nrw

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Quilting Tools, Tips, & Timesavers #1

There is one product I use repeatedly and keep well stocked:  fusible thread.  Fusible thread is unique in that it eliminates the need for basting and pinning on lots of sewing, quilting, and craft projects.  Manufactured by several companies, fusible thread can be found online as well as in sewing and quilting stores.

Fusible Thread

Here is a partial list of applications where fusible thread can be used:

1.  Positioning pockets in general sewing
2.  Adhering hems without pinning
3.  Positioning zippers before sewing in place
4.  Positioning trims such as Ric Rac
5.  Positioning appliqués
6.  Adhering bindings

Although the directions for fusible thread state that it can be used in the needle, I prefer to use it in the bobbin since it’s rather thick.  I always keep an extra bobbin wound with this thread handy.  I also keep the thread tails in a small plastic bag for future use.  Sometimes you just need a small amount of adhesion and these thread tails fit the bill.

Fusible thread is activated by the heat of an iron.  Never place a hot iron on the thread itself.  Press with steam from the reverse side, using a temperature appropriate for your fabric.  Allow the fabric to cool before touching.

You will be seeing fusible thread in some of my upcoming quilting tutorials.  If you’ve ever pricked your finger on a pin while quilting or sewing, this product is for you.

nrw

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