Yes, I do all that, including the use of the pen. But if you use an embroidery needle, size 60, the needle holes are much smaller and you cannot see a thing. I start using it while machine quilting a white on white background; although both threads where white, I could see the dark holes. If you like my tip, these needles are difficult to find so, make sure you buy more than one package when you find them.
Lucia