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When cutting out the pattern pieces you should always transfer all symbols from the pattern piece unto the fabric. There are many different ways to transfer the markings, and different tools to help make it easier. Not all tools or methods are suitable for marking all fabrics, and as you experiment with different tools and methods, you'll discover which ones work with which fabrics and which ones you prefer over others.
Here is a brief description of some tools and methods to use for fabric marking.
Tracing wheels and tracing paper
There are basically two types of tracing wheels; one has a smooth edge and the other is serrated. The serrated edge will make a dotted line and can snag some of the delicate fabric such as silk or satin. The smooth-edge wheel makes a solid line and can be used with more delicate fabrics.
To use the tracing wheels, you'll need a special waxed carbon paper, also known as dressmaker's tracing paper. This paper comes in different colors so you can use it with a variety of colored fabrics. Simply place the paper between the pattern piece and fabric, and glide the tracing wheel over the pattern piece to transfer the marking.
You can buy a single tracing wheel which has one wheel for marking, and a double tracing wheel which has two wheels side by side and is used to enlarge or reduce pattern sizes.
Tailor's Chalk
Tailor's chalk goes on quick and rubs off quick as well, so make sure to cut and sew immediately after marking.
Chalk can also be purchased in the form of a pencil used to make fine lines on the fabric.
Chlo-Chalk
This is great when marking designs for top stitching. The chalk comes off during pressing, washing, or within 24 hours.
Tailor Tacker
This tool is the best when having to mark two side of the fabric. It has two pieces of chalk in the center which come apart, one end has a hole and the other end a pointed needle. Place the needle end through the fabric and insert into the hole of the other end, then bring the two ends together and twist to leave the mark.
Water Soluble Marking Pens
Markings made with water soluble marking pens will wash out easily with water. When using these make sure to wash out all markings before pressing, as pressing could set the marks in permanently.
These pens should not be used on fabrics which water spot such as satin.
Air Soluble Marking Pens
The marks disappear within 48 hours of marking, so be sure to sew before then. Again do not press while the marking is still in the fabric, and these should not be used on fabrics which water spot.
Tacks
Use a needle and thread and go through the pattern piece and fabric and then back up again. Cut the thread above the fabric and remove pattern piece when all markings have been made.
Snips
Snips can be made with a scissor along the edges within the seam allowance to help line up the pattern pieces.
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