I discovered the hard way to use a sharp needle and replace if it gets gummy --wipe them off on an alcohol swab for another use if desired. I get the colored sharpies and use a shade darker than my fabric. Even stitches and then I also go over it and use my gloved hands to roll the left behind bits. Just works way better for me than anything else I've tried. Try it on a placem at or pot holder to see if you like the technique.