Washable Markers for Quilting: Affordable and Reliable Alternatives

In the world of quilting, finding the right tools can make all the difference. When it comes to marking fabric, washable markers for quilting are a must-have for any quilter.
While there are markers specifically designed for quilting, they tend to be pricey and not always accessible to everyone. This can make marking a quilt top seem like a complicated task.

I was in this situation for years, but everything changed when I bought some washable markers for my nephew. I decided to test them on my quilts. The results were fantastic, and I discovered that these markers could work just as well as specialized quilting markers, at a fraction of the cost.

Where to Use Washable Markers for Quilting:

1. Appliqué Placement
Washable markers for quilting are perfect for outlining the placement of appliqué shapes on your quilt top. Lightly mark the edges where you want the pieces to go.

2. Free-Motion Quilting Designs or Guidelines
For free-motion quilting, washable markers for quilting are an excellent tool for mapping out your designs. Whether you’re quilting fancy designs on blocks, feathers, or other free-motion quilting patterns, or you need to mark some guidelines for even spacing, marking the design on the quilt top allows you to follow it precisely while stitching.

Why Consider Washable Markers for Kids?

Washable markers designed for children, such as those from Crayola or BIC, are not only affordable but also come in a wide range of colors. These markers are easy to find, widely available, and, most importantly, they wash out completely after use, making them perfect for marking quilt tops.

I’ve been able to use these markers with confidence for the past 10 years, knowing that the markings would wash away without leaving any residue. This is one of my large appliqué quilts.

Recommended Washable Markers for Quilting

I use a French brand called BIC, which many European quilters can easily find in stores.

For those in North America, I highly recommend Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Markers. These fine-tip markers are available on Amazon and ship worldwide. They perform wonderfully—I’ve used them on many projects, and they consistently wash out without any issues.

Testing The Washable Markers for Quilting Is Key

When you’re using marking tools, it’s essential to test the markers on a scrap piece of the fabric you plan to use. Every fabric reacts differently, so testing ensures that you won’t run into any surprises later on. Wash the test fabric the same way you intend to wash your quilt to ensure the markings will come out as expected.

How to Wash Your Quilts After Marking

Once your quilt top is marked, it’s crucial to wash the quilt as soon as possible after completing it (and be sure the finishing doesn’t take years!). I wash all of my quilts to ensure any markings are completely removed. Here’s how I wash my quilts:

• Small Quilts (50” or smaller):
  I hand-wash these quilts in slightly warm water, adding a small amount of gentle detergent. I agitate the quilt until all markings disappear, which usually only takes a few minutes. If some markings remain, I let the quilt soak for a bit longer and repeat the process. Afterward, I rinse the quilt thoroughly and then put it through a gentle spin cycle in the washing machine.
• Large Quilts:
  For larger quilts, I use the washing machine on a gentle cycle with plenty of water and a small amount of detergent.

Conclusion

These washable markers for quilting have made my quilting process much easier and more affordable. They are readily available, come in a wide range of colors, and allow for precise fabric marking. After more than 10 years of extensive use, I’ve never encountered any issues. However, every fabric reacts differently, and what works for one quilter might not work for another. That’s why testing is essential for success!

I’m sure many of you have your own favorite markers for quilting! I’d love to hear about your experiences—feel free to share your thoughts and tips in the comments below.

Happy sewing!