Pin up ! (or choose your pins)

Are all pins equal? Do we choose them simply based on their length and appearance?

Well no ! Why make it so simple? Let's try to demystify the characteristics of the pins available on the market.

Dressmaker Pins

These so-called all-purpose pins are generally shorter and are chosen for different projects including light to medium-weight fabrics. It is used to hold two fabrics in place before sewing. The most common are made entirely of metal with a very small head. Other pins come with flat heads in different colors making them easy to spot.

Quilting pins

Longer in general and thinner, for working with more than one layer of fabric or thicker fabrics.

Magnetism

Steel pins will not be attracted to a magnet unlike their nickel-coated metal cousins... Practical for quickly picking up a pot that has fallen on the floor or for storing them on a magnetic pin tray.

Pointed or ballpoint?

We prefer ball point pins to use with knitwear. A pin that is too sharp could damage the precious threads of the knitting, risking creating small, unsightly holes that will remain after removal.

Conversely, we will prefer a pin with a pointed, sharp end to work with wovens and heavier fabrics. They will pass more easily through the fibers without offering resistance.

Flat head, round head

The flat colored plastic head is easy to handle since it is wider and even easier to spot to avoid forgetting!

The round head can be made of different materials, either plastic, bead, metal, or glass.

Some pins will even resist the heat of the iron!

Small ones, big ones, long ones…

Thinner pins, with a diameter of around 0.5 to 0.6mm, will be more flexible but will not break. They are less likely to leave a mark in the fabric when removed. You will need to consider replenishing your stock after a while if they are crooked.

The more robust pins (approximately 0.8mm) will resist twisting better but can break if strong pressure is applied to them. To work with heavy fabrics, their rigidity will be an asset.

A longer needle is preferred for thicker fabrics or a project that has multiple layers of fabric. Lengths vary between 25 and 55 mm.

Finally, read the description carefully for the pins you are about to purchase. Validate if they correspond to your projects. There are other types of specialty pins as well, but don't get confused!