Water Pens Have a Valuable Place In Quilting
Quilting is a craft that combines creativity, precision, and attention to detail. As quilters, we are always on the lookout for tools that can enhance our stitching experience and streamline our processes. One such tool that has gained popularity in recent years is the water pen. Originally designed for calligraphy and painting, water pens have found a valuable place in the world of quilting. These are my favorite ways to use them while sewing…
Taming Stubborn Seams with Liquid Starch: Water pens can be filled with liquid starch or starch alternatives, making them perfect for tackling stubborn seams. By gently applying moisture to the fabric directly on the seam with the water pen, you can easily press out those difficult (and sometimes bulky) seams or creases. This technique ensures that your quilt blocks lay flat, resulting in a more polished and professional finish.
Don’t forget to empty your pen and rinse the tip under water before storing.
Erasing Markings Made with Disappearing Ink Pens: When it comes to quilting, marking fabrics with disappearing ink pens is a common practice. However, sometimes these marks tend to linger longer than desired. With a water pen filled with plain water, you can easily erase those stubborn markings. Simply trace over the lines with the moist tip of the pen, and watch as the ink magically disappears before your eyes. This method keeps me from having to soak my entire project in water.
Cleaning the Nooks and Crannies of Your Sewing Machine: Maintaining a clean sewing machine is essential for optimal performance. Water pens, when dry, can become valuable tools for cleaning those hard-to-reach places in your sewing machine. The dry pen tip acts as a gentle brush, allowing you to remove lint, dust, and thread remnants from the nooks and crannies of your machine. Regular cleaning with a dry water pen can help prolong the life of your sewing machine and ensure smooth operation.
I set a couple of these pens aside in different sizes just for cleaning my machine.
Foundation Paper Piecing Made Easier: Foundation paper piecing is a popular quilting technique that involves sewing fabric pieces onto a foundation paper to create intricate designs. Removing the paper from the back of your quilt blocks can be a tedious task. Water pens come to the rescue once again! By lightly dampening the seam lines and corners of the paper with a water pen, you can easily remove the foundation paper without distorting the fabric or compromising the integrity of your pieced blocks.
Water pens have become invaluable tools in the world of quilting. From taming stubborn seams with liquid starch to erasing markings made with disappearing ink pens, these versatile tools offer convenience, precision, and efficiency in various aspects of quilting. Additionally, their ability to clean sewing machine nooks and aid in foundation paper piecing makes them a must-have for every quilting enthusiast. Incorporate water pens into your quilting toolkit, and experience the multitude of ways they can simplify and elevate your quilting projects.
Note: When using water pens, it is essential to ensure that the pen is clean and free from any residual substances that may affect the fabric. Always test on scrap fabric before using on your quilting projects.
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