Talc

Also Known As: French Chalk, Talcum Powder, Pounce

dry white clay mineral powder

Lubricant

Talc is often dusted over lasts and uppers to help uppers slide over during lasting and to aid removal of the last when the shoe is done. Talc may also help prevent stray adhesives from sticking to the last.

Marker

Talc is often used to transfer shapes and marks from pattern pieces and design stencils onto other materials. The pattern or stencil is laid on top of the material and talc is dusted or brushed on top, out of a shaker or fabric pad, like a quilter’s pounce pad.

Buying

Talc is widely marketed as a body powder, but usually mixed with other materials and perfumes. Pure talc can often be found as a cosmetics ingredient, or as marketed for automotive tire shops or fiberglass filling.