Hera Markers and Finger Presser
with instructor Steve Butler
Class 135
What is it? – Hera Markers. Wow! Kind of a misnomer. Kind of not. Compared with other more traditional markers like pens and pencils that leave definitive lines, they’re not markers at all. If, however, you want a marker that leaves clear, easily identifiable lines to follow while applying your stitches without leaving any potentially “permanent” pencil or ink marks on your quilt, then the Hera Marker is the ultimate marker. Just like using a pen or pencil, you can inscribe either straight or curved lines. Follow a ruler or template or just plain wing-it free hand. The primary difference is that Hera markers don’t really “mark” the quilt. They form handy, easy to follow “creases” that can be made to go away simply by washing or pressing. No chance you end up with marks that won’t go away. If you’re a quilter who needs to define the decorative quilting stitches on the top of that precious new quilt top, Hera marking is definitely something to consider. It’s also perfect for marking skirt or pant hems, pleats and darts. And you can always use it as a real time saver to finger press seams at your sewing station without having to move to your ironing board. The Hera marker is basically a hardened piece of plastic with at least one rounded edge that is “sharpened” to a fine edge. It is this sharp edge that produces your stitch guiding crease as you press it into your fabric. And for a bonus, it never runs out of ink or dries up. It is a permanent and valued addition to your sewing studio. And while each of these Hera Markers can double as a finger presser, Clover has developed a dedicated Finger Presser that is he expert tool designed specifically for this time saving procedure.
How does it work? – Clover offers three styles of Hera Markers and a dedicated Finger Presser. Each Hera Marker has at least one sharp edge that can be used to produce our desired guide lines. And each has secondary applications.
Clover Hera Marker – The Clover Hera Marker is made of a hard plastic material that fits comfortably in either your left or right hand. One end is flattened and sharpened into a smooth rounded edge. This is the edge that leaves a discernible crease on your fabric. The edge can also be turned with the flat side down to make it the ultimate finger pressing tool. One great tool, two necessary functions.
“Hera” Marker Slim – Clover’s “Hera” Marker Slim has the expected sharpened edge that will leave the fabric creases that will define our stitching. In addition, however, it boasts a pencil like tip on the opposite end of the tool. This fine point is perfect for free hand drawing of acute creases found on applique or reverse applique. This fine point is also perfect for following those detailed design templates.
Point 2 Point Turner – Clover’s Point 2 Point Turner is a true, multi-function tool. It has two sharpened edges of different shapes at either end of the tool that can be used as Hera Markers. Use the one that best suits your application. Two points are also available at either end of the tool that suits the turning function in either tight, restricted spaces or those with more access. The long sweeping edge of the tool is perfect for turning long sweeping seams. For turning seams with a shorter radius the spatula shaped edge is ideally suited. The flat, smooth arc of the spatula edge is also perfect for finger pressing. With a flip of your wrist you can switch from one tool and application to another. Easy and convenient.
Clover Finger Presser – The Clover Finger Presser is a dedicated tool designed specifically to allow pressing seams without relying on an ironing board and iron. A long thin handle allows you to hold it accurately and comfortably and the shaped pressing surface allows you to apply the appropriate amount of pressure with your finger. Overall it is a very clever device that allows you to press seams quickly and precisely at the sewing station without having to move back and forth to the pressing station.
How do I share it? – Hera Markers have a broad application to quilting, fashion, and home decor. They’ve been around in one form or another for a long time. Unfortunately not a lot of sewers are aware of their benefits. Provide in-store opportunities for everyone to see how easy and favorable Hera Markers can be to use. Offering “loaners” during classes is an excellent way to show off these benefits as well. To try it is to like it. Everyone will want one.
