French chalk

American  

noun

1. a talc for marking lines on fabrics.

---

French chalk British  

noun

1. a compact variety of talc used to mark cloth or remove grease stains from materials

---

Etymology

Origin of French chalk

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

The mould is dusted with French chalk, flint, or very finely81 sifted clay dust, to prevent sticking, and into it is pressed a piece cut to fit easily in the tile box, from the slab.

From Project Gutenberg

French chalk is the best, but common chalk will answer very well.

From Project Gutenberg

As to threads, or feathers, or French chalk marks on their clothes, they would not think of looking for them.'

From Project Gutenberg

If any reason exists to prevent the substance from being wetted, then apply French chalk, which will absorb the grease from the finest texture without injury.

From Project Gutenberg

The substance called Venetian or French chalk, used by tailors and others, is nothing more than steatite.

From Project Gutenberg