French chalk

American  

noun

1. a talc for marking lines on fabrics.

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French chalk British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of French chalk

First recorded in 1720–30

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

French chalk

The deck had been dusted with French chalk; bright-coloured flags draped the canvas walls; the band was whimpering to start.

From A Tall Ship On Other Naval Occasions by Bartimeus

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 The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness A Complete Hand Book for the Use of the Lady in Polite Society by Florence Hartley

Having decided upon the distance apart they are to be placed, cut a marker from a piece of cardboard and measure off the space, marking with pins, French chalk, pencil, or thread.

From Textiles and Clothing by Kate Heintz Watson

If the figure be first dusted with French chalk, it will leave the clay without trouble.144 Little walls being built, the first half is then cast.

From Pottery, for Artists Craftsmen & Teachers by George J. Cox

A little talcum powder, French chalk, or powdered boracic acid dusted on the table makes the stock handle easier.

From Paper-Cutting Machines A Primer of Information about Paper and Card Trimmers, Hand-Lever Cutters, Power Cutters and Other Automatic Machines for Cutting Paper (Typographic Technical Series Part 1, No. 10) by David Grayson

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