Pounce Powder -- allergy?

[Jules M.]

Has anyone noticed an allergic reaction to the pounce (iron-off) powder? I have noticed I get a few issues breathing when quilting and the powder is poofing a bit while I quilt. (long-arm) There is powder on the hopping foot. Also if I get it on my arm's there is a bit of an itch. Nothing is dramatic but makes me wonder enough about repeated use.

[Jules M.]

I suppose it would depend on what is in the pounce powder you are using, you could be allergic to one of the ingredients, but might be fine with another brand. I don't recognise the term 'iron off' so it must be an american product, that said, I haven't looked to buy pounce - the first time I needed it I made my own using ground up dried cuttle fish (bought from a pet shop) half of which I dyed with ink for a dark pounce. And since then I have used tailors chalk dust, which is a by-product of sharpening my tailors chalk into a small tin when I am drawing up patterns (clothes).

It does sound as if you are sensitive to the pounce you are using, and if you can find an alternative it would probably be sensible, before your reactions to it get worse. Sorry I cannot help any further.

[Karen W.]

I had to quit using the Pounce powder due to an allergic reaction. Being thrifty I used up what I had for the project but had to take Benadryl first and then wear a mask as it caused me to have breathing problems. Thought it was just me. Guess not.

[Karen W.]

Is pounce powder chalk? I have a reaction to carpenters chalk. When we were doing some home remodeling my husband would have me hold the chalk line so he could snap a line. My fingers would swell up and itch terribly so I am assuming I am allergic to something in the chalk. That's why I wondered if it is chalk that you are using.

[Jules M.]

Is pounce powder chalk?

Yes, pounce is a powder. I've not had that reaction to carpenter's chalk but only used it a small bit over the years. When I get a moment, I think I'll call the company.