Dressmaker's Pin
A dressmaker's pin is a thin, needle-like sewing tool used to temporarily hold textile or patterns before or after cutting, keeping the stitching position and shape from shifting.
Contents5 sections
Definition and Overview
A dressmaker's pin is a temporary pin made up of a sharp metal shaft and a head. Before sewing, it is used to hold layers of textile together and keep them stable while checking seam allowance, match points, pattern alignment, and other positions. It is used to prepare for both hand sewing and machine sewing.
A sewing needle is a tool used to create stitches by passing thread through it, whereas a dressmaker's pin is a tool used to temporarily secure textile before and after the sewing process. It can be used to hold fabric more quickly than basting thread, but it is not suitable for long-term holding or areas subject to strong force.
How to Use
Align the fabric edges and match points, and insert the dressmaker's pins as close to perpendicular to the sewing line as possible. This makes them easier to remove just before sewing. Keeping the pin within the seam allowance reduces the risk of leaving unnecessary needle holes on the right side. For delicate fabrics or fabrics where damage is noticeable, test in an inconspicuous area first.
When sewing with a sewing machine, in principle remove the dressmaker's pins from the front as you sew so that they do not hit the machine needle or presser foot. Sewing with pins still in place may cause the pin to break, distort the stitches, or lead to injury.
- For curved sections, reduce the spacing to prevent lifting or shifting of the fabric.
- For thick fabrics or areas with many layers, use them as needed together with basting thread.
- For patterned fabrics, first align the key pattern points, then secure the middle sections.
Types and Selection
Dressmaker's pins differ in pin length and thickness, tip sharpness, and the shape and material of the head. In general, thin, sharp pins are easier to use on thin or delicate materials, while longer pins tend to be easier to handle on thick fabrics or materials with many layers. Pins that are too thick for the fabric can cause holes or thread pulls.
Heads may be made of glass, resin, or metal. If ironing is involved, confirm that the head is resistant to heat deformation. Color, size, and ease of gripping are also factors in selection because they affect visibility and handling during work. For products that go through a needle detection process, consider managing the number used and making them easy to recover.
- Very thin fabrics and silk-like materials: choose thin pins with sharp tips.
- General woven fabrics: choose a length that passes through the fabric well and is easy to handle.
- Thick fabrics and quilted materials: consider longer, stronger pins.
- Use with an iron: check the heat resistance of the head and ease of handling during work.
Care and Safety Notes
After use, count the pins and store them together in a pincushion or a lidded container. It is important to develop the habit of checking whether any remain on the worktable, floor, or in the product. Especially in sample making before mass production and in sewing lines, operations may be carried out to record the number brought in and the number recovered.
If left with moisture or water on them, the pins may rust and stain the fabric. Do not use dressmaker's pins that show dirt, rust, bending, or a crushed tip. Avoid holding them in the mouth or moving around with them stuck in clothing, as these actions can lead to accidental swallowing or injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should dressmaker's pins be removed just before sewing with a sewing machine?
As a general rule, remove them before the machine needle reaches them. Sewing over a dressmaker's pin can cause the machine needle to break or fragments to fly. If they are inserted perpendicular, they are easier to remove, but care is still needed when removing them while sewing.
What should I do if pin holes remain in thin fabric?
Choose thinner dressmaker's pins and insert them in less visible positions such as within the seam allowance. Because holes may not close easily depending on the fabric, it is important to test on a scrap piece first. As a temporary holding method, you can also consider basting thread or a clip suitable for the fabric.
What is the difference between a dressmaker's pin and a sewing needle?
A dressmaker's pin is a pin used to temporarily secure fabric or a pattern and usually does not have an eye for thread. A sewing needle is a needle for passing thread through and creating stitches by hand. Because their uses and structures differ, use them according to the task at hand.
