I only do whole cloth quilts and have done between 45 and 50 so far in different sizes. Sometimes I use the precut stencils but most times I cut my own cardboard templates. I am always very inspired by traditional whole cloths from North England and Wales and I love to use their classic patterns. From time to time I make my own designs and I also do freehand quilting (and marking).
My favourite marking method is needle marking with a darning needle. That works perfect for me on light and medium colored solids. For very dark fabrics I use watercolor pencils in a color a few shades lighter than the fabric.
Good luck and enjoy your project!