Sewing Clips vs. Sewing Pins (Which is Better?)
When stitching together multiple pieces of fabric it can be beneficial, and oftentimes necessary, to pin or clip the layers of fabric together before sewing. Pins are a staple for most quilters and a sewing kit isn’t complete without them. However, fabric clips are a great alternative and are becoming more popular among quilters and sewists. But which is the best choice? Well… that depends.
In this blog post, I will explain the differences between sewing pins and sewing clips and which are better for certain situations. It’s my opinion that it’s best to have both on hand.
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Sewing Pins
What are quilting pins?
Pins used for quilting are long, sharp, straight pins used to hold pattern pieces in place, line up seams, and hold layers of fabric together before sewing. Sewing pins are usually made of nickel-plated steel.
The heads of the pins are larger and made of glass or plastic. Glass heads are heat resistant and can be ironed over, while plastic heads can not. You can also find pins with flat heads that lay flush and numbered pins that help keep pieces organized.
Pins used for quilting differ from dressmaker pins which are usually shorts and do not have a head. Pins are useful for smaller projects that would be weighed down with bulky clips.
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Best Sewing Pins for Quilters
Where can you purchase quilting pins?
Quality sewing pins can be purchased at your local quilt shop, fabric shops, and big box stores like Joann and Hobby Lobby. I have linked a few of my favorites below that are available at Fat Quarter Shop. Don’t forget to check Amazon as well!
Clover Quilting Pins
These pins are long and sharp so they can easily pass through fabrics. They also have heat resistant glass heads which can be ironed.
Marilee’s Numbered Pins
These stainless steel, flat head pins are numbered (1-20) and are perfect for keeping your quilting projects organized.
Dritz Quilting Pins
These are high-quality, nickel-plated pins. They have plastic heads, rather than glass, so they are unable to be ironed over.
Clover Flower Head Pins
The flat heads on these pins are ideal for sewing over and ironing.
Sewing Clips
What are sewing clips?
Sewing clips are small, plastic clips with one flat side. These are best for thick fabrics and thick layers because they won’t pierce holes. Clips are also a great choice for delicate fabrics because they won’t snag as pins can. The most popular brand of quilting clips is Wonder Clips by Clover. Binder clips, like those used for stationary, can also be used. You can purchase smaller clips or find them in a large size.
The flat backs of the clips allow the sewing project to lay flat while working. They typically have 1/4″ and 1/2″ seam allowance markings and are especially useful for quilters and seamstresses.
If you don’t already have sewing clips, they are a great tool and I would highly suggest adding these to your sewing supplies. I use Wonder Clips every time I bind a quilt. They have a strong hold, so they keep all those layers of fabric in place while I stitch the binding in place. Also, sewing clips are not exclusive to sewing but can be used for other craft projects as well.
Can you sew over sewing clips?
Sewing clips should be removed before sewing. Wonder Clips are too bulky to pass under the presser foot, but Magic Clips are made of thing stainless steel that can pass under the presser foot, but the needle should still be avoided.
Pros:
Cons:
Best Sewing Clips for Quilters
Where can I purchase sewing/quilting clips?
Just like sewing pins, these are easy to find at your local quilt shops and hobby stores. Below are my favorite Wonder Clips available from Fat Quarter Shop, as well as Magic Clips.
Clover Wonder Clips (Mini, Regular, and Jumbo)
Wonder Clips are available in mini, regular, and jumbo sizes in various colors and quantities. These are my favorite sewing clips.
Magic Clips (Mini, Extra Small, Small, and Big)
Magic Clips are slightly different than Wonder Clips in that they are made of thin stainless steel which can pass under your presser foot. The needle still needs to be avoided however. Magic Clips are available in sizes mini, extra small, small, and big.
Big Stitch Binding Kits
Are you looking for sewing clips for binding? I have Big Stitch Binding Kits available in my Shop. In addition to the zip pouch, they include 4 Wonder Clips, DMC Pearl Cotton Embroidery Thread, a Clover leather thimble, embroidery scissors, and embroidery needles.
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