Originally Posted by pookie ookie
Lots of great advice here. I'll skip my magnifier advice as that's been well covered.
Clover Fork Pins. I would never match up seams without them.
I have a very hard time with dark fabrics. I can't see anything well if a dark fabric is involved. Contrasting thread and pencil-thick markings vanish.
I use a pounce pad for outlining templates and stencils on dark fabrics.
I haven't found a decent marker for dark fabrics and white/silver pencils don't work for me at all. Need a thick marker.
When I cannot find the right pencil to mark on dark fabric...I jusr stitch big white stitches over the pins as if big basting so I can sew over them.....
Be careful with the bright white artificial light....It can actually be very harmful for your sight.....I cannot live without the automatic needle threader and evoiding dark fabric is another good advice.....
I had sent you a PM too.....
Have fun and good luck