How to Transfer Patterns to a Dark Fabric

Mark patterns on dark fabric.

One of the easiest ways to get a pattern onto fabric is by tracing it, but if the fabric is dark, you may have a harder time seeing the pattern than if you had a lighter fabric. To ensure you get the pattern onto darker fabric, there are a variety of methods to use that are safe for the fabric itself and allow you to see the pattern later on.

Things You'll Need

• Tissue paper
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Needle
• White fabric chalk
• Clean cloth

Instructions

Tissue Paper

1. Draw your pattern on the tissue paper using pencil. Pin the paper in the exact position you want the pattern to be transferred.

2. Stitch the pattern onto the fabric through the markings in the tissue paper either by hand or with a sewing machine.

3. Moisten the fabric with water to soften the tissue paper then remove the paper from the fabric. Once the paper is removed, your pattern will be stitched onto the fabric.

Fabric Chalk

1. Place the pattern onto the fabric, pin into place if desired.

2. Trace the pattern with the white fabric chalk. The waxy texture will mark the pattern onto the dark fabric so you can see it during sewing.

3. Wipe away any residual white chalk after you have sewn or cut the pattern. Use a moistened clean cloth to gently brush away the chalk marks.

References

• Bella Online: Transferring Embroidery Patterns to Fabric