I like to use a stencil - but instead of a pounce pad and chalk - just put the chalk into a container and use a small foam brush to apply the chalk to the quilt top. you can put/paint the chalk right on the lines of the stencil - instead of all over the top of the stencil. It is no where as messy and you don't end up with chalk all over the place. Plus when you are quilting the extra chalk tends to "bounce" all over the top. Try the chalk and a foam brush... I like it!!!