With so many different types of sewing pins available, it can seem overwhelming choosing the right pin for the job. Here, we give an overview of what to look out for when selecting a sewing pin for your kit.
What are sewing pins made from?
Pins can be made from a number of different metals, including brass, nickel, steel or a mix of them. Stainless steel, brass and nickel-plated brass pins are rust-proof, which is important if you plan on leaving your pins in your work for an extended period of time. Nickel-plated steel pins are rust-resistant and will also work with a pin magnet.
Different pin types and uses:
- Basting Pins - The curved shape of this pin allows for easy insertion into fabric and helps prevent quilt layers from moving. SOHMO Basting Pins
- Entomology Pins - These super-fine pins are ideal for use with light or delicate fabrics like Liberty Tana Lawn. SOHMO Entomology Pins
- Glass Head Pins - General purpose pins with a heat-proof glass head that can be ironed over without melting. The coloured head makes it easier to see the pin on your fabric, and to grab on to. See SOHMO Glass Head Pins here
- Safety Pins without a coil - The coil in safety pins can snag fabrics which can damage your project. Bulb Pins, Calabash Pins, French Safety Pins and Coilless Pins are all great coil-free pins. SOHMO Coilless Pins SOHMO Bulb Pins
Top pin tips:
- Don't run your sewing machine over pins. It can break the needle, damage your sewing machine or cause injury to you.
- Throw out damaged, bent or rusty pins to avoid causing damage to your projects.
- Clips are a great alternative to pins when the fabric is too thick, or when working with vinyl or leather where a pin would leave a hole. SOHMO Clips come in two sizes.
- If you own a lot of different types of pins, it is useful to store and label them separately. SOHMO pins come in their own handy-dandy reusable tins.
