A Word About Frixion Gel Pens for Marking Quilts

Just returned from Quilt Market in Salt Lake City.  One of the hot new items was the Pilot Frixion Gel Pens for marking quilts because you can iron away the marks.  However, if you look closely, the advertising says that the marks turn clear when heated to over 140 degrees. "Turning clear" is not the same thing as "comes out of the fabric".  The fine print also says that the marks reappear at temperatures below 14 degrees.

I consulted with an award winning machine quilter, and she had already tested the pens.  She ironed them away, stuck the fabric in the fridge, and the marks came back.  Re-ironed the marks away, stuck the fabric in the fridge, and the marks still came back.  She also tried washing out the marks, but they still keep coming back.  Now if you live in the heat of the desert, the marks are less likely to come back than if you live in Minnesota or even up here in Lake Tahoe where 14 degrees is not uncommon in the winter.

Keep in mind that these pens were not originally designed to use on fabric.  They are great fun to use on paper.  Something else to consider is what the marks may do to your quilt over time.  Remember, we make our quilts to last a long time. So if the marks are really still there, just "turn clear", is that really what you want on your heirloom quilt?

I would love to hear what you think of this product..

New Classes at Fabrics Unlimited

It has finally stopped snowing, so come up to see us in beautiful Lake Tahoe.  We have a variety of new classes scheduled in May. Take a look!

•  Beginning Quilting (6 weeks) Begins Tues, 5/10 from 9am-1pm
• Quick Start Beginning Quilting (1 day) Wed, 5/18 from 8am-4pm - lunch included
• Beginning Sewing I - Pillowcase Sat, 5/21 from 2pm-5pm (Ages 16+)
• Beginning Free Motion Quilting with Jill Schumacher Wed, 5/25 from 10am-4pm - lunch included
• Fat Quarters Anonymous 4th Sat Monthly beginning 5/28 from 9am-3pm
• Party with Patrick - 4th Wed Monthly 6pm-9pm

 Call, come in, or sign up on line. 15% discount on class supplies purchased in the shop.

 

Also, AMGEN Tour starts Sunday, May 15 in Lake Tahoe for bike enthusiasts.  If you are planning to come up here via Hwy 50 from the Sacramento area, be aware that Cal Trans is closing Hwy 50 for 2 weeks at Echo Summit (the really scary cliff area) on May 11 (yes, 4 days before the start of the tour!).  Check out www.way2tahoe.com for updates and detour information.