Some upholsters use chalk to mark their patterns, which is easier to remove than ballpoint pens, china markers, and crayons. A soft, non-dusting variety of chalk, such as Crayola Anti dust white chalk, will mark suede relatively easily. Occasionally, chalk may get on the face of the suede or chalk marks will need to be removed if the pattern is marked incorrectly.
For best results, brush the suede with a soft brush such as a soft toothbrush. The brush loosens the chalk and should be followed by brushing or fluffing the suede with a soft clean cloth to disperse it. In the upholstery shop, use clean dry compressed air from an air hose to accomplish this. Mineral spirits also are effective but are messier and more time consuming. Brushing suede also works too.
