Pinning

 What type of pins to use?

The best type of pins to use should be made of steel and high polished, so that no marks are left on the fabric. The rounded pin heads as shown to the right are the easiest to use. A ball point pin should be used on pile or knitted fabrics.  A magnetic holder makes pinning and clean up a lot easier as shown to the right.

Just a quick note:  If you purchased cheap 3/4" thin pins with no heads at the dollar store, get rid of them.  They are too small to work with. They fall on chairs and the ground, and can not be seen for easy pick up.  They are cheaply made and can ruin your fabric. Some times it is just better to put out a little more money for the better product.  This is one of those times.

Basic pinning method:

Pin the seams at both ends of the fabric first, making sure the ends match perfectly. Then pin in between the ends where the notches and dots are.  Place the pins perpendicular to the edge of your fabric piece.

As you stitch your seams stop just before reaching each pin and remove the pin.  If you don't remove the pins first you can break your needle by sewing over them.

When pinning a pattern piece onto fabric before cutting,  place pins as shown in the photo to the left. They should be parallel to the cutting line and about 3-4 " apart. Click here to read more about Pinning Pattern pieces.

When pinning fabric pieces together for sewing, pins should be perpendicular to the edge of your fabric as shown to the right. Place pins about 3-4 finger lengths apart. There are times when pinning closer together is necessary like when gathering is needed.