New question. What method do you use for marking stitching lines to do feathers or other designs?

I have tried everything and finally decided on the Chaco pen with white chalk or pink chalk. It brushes out with your finger nail if you don't like the way you drew the line. It goes on so easily, and comes off easily, too. I admit that I have to go over the lines a few times before finishing the block because it's easy to brush them out as you quilt. I'm not saying it's the only way to go, but it works for me. And for feathers, it was great on the last quilt I just finished.

I have not tryed hand quilting yet. God bless. Penny

For light fabrics I use needle marking, for dark ones watercolor pencils. Both work out great for me.

Borntoquilt, I have to ask, even though I'm probaby the only one who doesn't know.... what is needle marking? I've seen the pictures of your work, and I love your handquilting.

No hoop either, but I just bought a small one to try it out.

Me too.

Which one of the Grace frames did you get? I have been thinking about getting one for several years but wanted to talk to someone who actually has one.

Needlemarking ist a very traditional method of marking quilts and I got to know it several years ago in a book about the British quilting tradition. You need a darning needle with a point not too sharp. The needle is not held upright but at a sharp angle and the point is pressed firmly against the fabric, leaving a crease mark. You can also use a Heramarker for it and it's suitable for ready cut stencils and outline stencils as well. Grids are easy to mark with the Hera thing. It's best to do the needlemarking after basting the quilt.
Hops that helps!

I think you are asking me?? My Grace frame is Z44 with the fabri-fast for easy attaching of the quilt. It's so adjustable. I can lift one side and lower the other, or I can raise the front or lower it. I bought it new 3 years ago(I think), but I don't remember the price, although I thought it was reasonable. Here is a picture right after hubby and I assembled it. That was a lot of work! But worth it. :thumbup: