PINS ｜ Why and how to pin properly?

Pinning is essential for a precise and professional finish. There are four main situations where pinning is used:

• When tracing : To keep the pattern securely in place on the fabric.
• When cutting : To hold two layers of fabric together, ensuring precise cuts.
• When sewing : To prepare complex assemblies (curves, sleeve installation, zipper placement, etc.).
• When fitting a prototype : To identify necessary adjustments.

My favorite pins: pour le denim:
Épingles Prym 0.80 x 48 mm (Lien Amazon)

Needle vs. Pin: What's the difference?

Needles and pins are two essential sewing tools, but they serve very different purposes:

• Pins Used to temporarily hold two (or more) layers of fabric together before or during sewing. It consists of a thin shaft with a point on one end and a head on the other (sometimes flat or colored). It is removed before the needle passes through the fabric.
• Needles Used to sew fabrics together (manually or with a machine). It is a thin shaft with an eye (to thread the thread) and a point that pierces the fabric. The needle is used to permanently assemble fabrics.

💡 Pro tip:: Pins prepare the work, while the needle completes it.

Tips for Pinning Fabric Properly

Pin orientation :
Always place pins perpendicular to the edge of the fabric (not parallel to the seam line). This prevents them from getting in the way of the needle and makes it easier to remove them as you sew, reducing the risk of breaking the needle.

Pinning technique :
Insert the pin into the fabric and weave it back through so that the point comes out on top.
👉 This method keeps pins secure and easily accessible for smooth sewing.

The Best Pins for Denim

There are many types of pins, each suited to different fabrics or projects. If you’re a beginner, test with what you have on hand and use scraps to avoid damaging your fabrics.

What distinguishes pins: :

• Head Flat, glass, or colored plastic.
• Material : Brass or stainless steel.
• Length : Varies depending on the type of project and thickness of the fabric.
• Thickness : Thicker or finer depending on the fabric.
• Point : Sharp or rounded.

For denim, a thick fabric, I recommend:

• Stainless steel pins.
• A length of 1.5’’ (3.7cm) and a diameter of 6–8 mm.
• A sharp point.
• A glass head, which is easy to spot and heat-resistant (won’t melt under the iron).

My favorite pins: pour le denim:
Épingles Prym 0.80 x 48 mm (Lien Amazon)

You should know that a pin has a limited lifespan and won’t last forever. If the tip gets dull, I recommend getting rid of that pin, as a dull tip can pull threads in your fabric and damage it.

I keep a small Mason jar in my sewing kit where I collect them until the jar is full.

📌 In Summary:

Pinning is a crucial step for clean, misalignment-free sewing. With the right tools and techniques, you can transform any project into a success.

What type of pin do you use most often? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇 👇

See you soon!

Ariane xo

---

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more