Sharpies Ok For Quilt Signing?

I wrote the whole story behind this in another post but this is a different question. I am bringing squares to a funeral so everyone can sign them. Then I will put together with pictures of the baby and the squares.
I only have one marker that's actually for permanent quilt signing. I do have a package of colored Sharpie markers. Would those work okay?
I plan on just using various shades of white fabric and backing each piece with interfacing. For stability and so people can see a physical barrier (if they even pay attention) that says -- do not write outside this box! (I need my 1/4" seam!)
Another question. For printing the pictures: Anyone have a favorite transfer paper they use?

Any other suggestions you can offer would be great!

Sharpies have a tendency to bleed on fabrics. . .i have seen recommendations to use Pigma pens. I believe you can get these at Joann's or an office supply stores

Sharpies can and will "bleed" an oily type substance around where you use them. They are permanent markers, but not made specifically for fabrics.

I have never tried that myself, but I saw a Fons & Porter episode where they made a signature memory quilt. I believe they specifically said NOT to use Sharpies because they yellow over time on fabric. I don't recall the brand of marker that they used, but it was a permanent fabric marker.

This is a bit long but I think it's well worth your time to read it. I sure learned some things from it that I didn't know before.

It sounds like this is a very special quilt you are making and I'm sure you want the words to be clearly written and last as long as the quilt does.

Freckled Whimsy: Quilt Labels - Which Pens To Use

If you know any scrapbookers that might have "Creative Memories" pens - they are the same as the Pigma.

I read your other post and, honestly, was too choked up to respond. Hugs and prayers for all of you in this trying time. I just can't imagine the grief everyone is going through.

Use a Pigma Micro pen and be sure to heat set before you sew. You should be able to find them at Michael's, Joann's, office supply stores. They're not expensive. I would also suggest that you cut your fabric squares larger than you need, draw a pencil border around the block, leaving yourself and others room for error. (1/2" or so). You can inform people not to sign into the marked border. Bring extra pieces if someone needs to practice writing on fabric.

I've never used interfacing for writing on labels. I usually iron my square onto the shiny side of freezer paper. It makes the fabric more stable to write on. My problem with interfacing is that is may not be smooth enough. Try one for practice before you have others signing. And be sure that they place your fabric on a hard surface before attempting to sign. I know that's just common sense, but those attending the services may not think clearly without your guidance. Good luck and again, my condolences.

Thank you all for your help. I was worried freezer paper would be too stiff if they wanted to use this quilt for snuggling. I was thinking of finding Wonder Under stuff. But, maybe I should use freezer paper. I really don't know what they'll do with the quilt.
I have a set of Creative Memory pens I bought at a yard sale months ago thinking I would scrapbook. Didn't even think about those. Thanks! :-)
I wonder if it would do any good to have a little sign at the table that explains what to do?

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Originally Posted by Longstocking

Thank you all for your help. I was worried freezer paper would be too stiff if they wanted to use this quilt for snuggling. I was thinking of finding Wonder Under stuff. But, maybe I should use freezer paper. I really don't know what they'll do with the quilt.
I have a set of Creative Memory pens I bought at a yard sale months ago thinking I would scrapbook. Didn't even think about those. Thanks! :-)
I wonder if it would do any good to have a little sign at the table that explains what to do?

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You would only use the freezer paper for the actual signing of the block, then peel it off before assembling he quilt. It gives a good deal of stability.

I should have given better instructions. You can get a roll of freezer paper from the grocery store, usually near the tin foil and plastic wrap. Cut a piece of freezer paper for each fabric square. Gently press each fabric square to the shiny side of the paper with a dry iron. Draw your border with pencil around each block so no one writes past the line. Stack your papers with the squares to transport. When you get home, lift the fabric off the freezer paper and press each fabric square to set the ink. Then you're ready to start sewing.

Wonder Under will be too stiff and is not removable. If you feel that you must interface, only use a very lightweight fusible. Personally, I wouldn't recommend it. You might want to consider starching your fabric which will also give it a little more body.

Thank you! I get it :-) I have a roll of freezer paper so that's perfect! For some reason I thought you left it on - lol

I also use Pigma pens and then heat set. One caution, make sure that the fabric they are signing has NO fabric softener in it or spray starch on it. These will cause the ink to not be permanent. (The fabric should be prewashed, but don't use fabric softener.)

I have had great success with the pigma pens as I use them to sign all my quilts. Even my first quilts, after many years and many, many washes later, the ink is holding up beautifully. :icon_happy: