Replies

1. 
   lorisews | Jul 20, 2007 07:31pm | #1

   You can get an adjustable guide arm for Olfa rotary cutters that allows you to add the seam allowance while cutting - set it to the desired width, then follow the edge of your pattern with the guide arm when cutting.

   Lori

1. 
   lakaribane | Jul 20, 2007 08:30pm | #3

   Thanks lori, that sounds like a great gadget to have.

2. 
   CostumerVal | Jul 20, 2007 07:48pm | #2

   There are quite a few on the market under different names.  They all work the same, the barrel is hollow and you fill it with powdered chalk and put the cap back on.  The bottom has a very tiny slit in it and a thin metal wheel with teeth protrudes through the slit.  Inside there is a metal bar that rubs against the wheel.  The bar scraping on the teeth of the wheel both cleans the wheel and vibrates more chalk to the bottom and through the slit.  The thing to be watchful for is the pressure of the spring against the wheel.  My first one (generic triangle shape) the spring was so powerful that the wheel wouldn't turn.  That thing could shred denim.  This one is so fine that I can draw a chalk line on the inside of my forearm.  I recommend opening the package and trying it out in front of the clerk before you purchase.

   I use it to mark seamlines.  Today they are the replacement of the carbon paper and tracing wheels we used to use.

   
1. 
   lakaribane | Jul 20, 2007 08:32pm | #4

   Val, I think the picture you sent sealed the deal. I absolutely need something like that!!! Thank you so much for showing me "the proof [in] the pudding", LOL.

3. 
   Pattiann42 | Jul 25, 2007 12:53am | #5

   Take a look at the Pen Style Chaco Liner.  They are shaped like an ink pen and can be refilled.  I have the version that is about the size of a tube of lipstick, but think I might try the pen too.

   There is a listing for the pen at http://www.ConnectingThreads.com