Question 1

What is the difference between a hat pin and a stick pin?

Accepted Answer

A hat pin is a long pin, usually 3-6 inches, with a decorative top that spears through a felt or wool hat and locks with a slide-on nail guard. A stick pin (or tie pin) is shorter and slimmer, worn through a lapel, tie, scarf, or cravat and held by a small clutch or coiled stopper. Hat pins anchor headwear; stick pins are a tailoring accent for jackets and neckwear.

Question 2

Are hat pins and stick pins a good gift, and for whom?

Accepted Answer

Yes. They suit anyone who wears felt hats (fedoras, berets, cloches) or dresses up a jacket with a lapel or tie pin. They make thoughtful gifts for vintage-style and Western-wear fans, grooms and groomsmen, and Renaissance-fair or steampunk dressers. Because there's no sizing, they're an easy gift; pair a beaded hat pin with a hat, or a sterling stick pin with a tie, for a complete present.

Question 3

How do you keep a hat pin from falling out or pricking you?

Accepted Answer

Look for a nail guard (also called a pin keeper or clutch) included with the pin; it slides onto the exposed point to lock the pin in place and cover the sharp tip. For hat pins, thread the pin through the hat fabric twice, taking a small bite of felt, before capping it. Stick pins use a clutch or coiled stopper that grips the shaft; check it slides on firmly and doesn't loosen.

Question 4

How long should a hat pin be?

Accepted Answer

Match the length to the headwear. A close-fitting beret or knit cap takes a shorter 2-3 inch pin, while a wide-brimmed felt hat or a hairstyle worn underneath needs a 4-6 inch shank so it passes through and re-anchors. Decorative display hat pins can run longer. Stick pins for lapels and ties are typically 2-3 inches, just long enough to pass through the fabric and seat the clutch.

Question 5

What materials are used in handmade hat pins and stick pins?

Accepted Answer

Shafts are usually brass, nickel-plated steel, pewter, or sterling silver, chosen for a point that stays sharp and resists rust. Decorative tops range from glass and crystal beads, freshwater pearls, and cabochon gemstones to hand-cast resin, polymer clay, and tiny soldered charms. For frequent wear, sterling or stainless shafts hold up best; check the topper is glued or set securely so it won't work loose.

Question 6

How much do handmade hat pins and stick pins cost?

Accepted Answer

Simple beaded or brass stick pins run about $8-$25, decorative hat pins with glass, crystal, or charm toppers about $15-$50, and sterling-silver or genuine-gemstone pieces $40-$120 or more. Sets and pins with a matching nail guard sit at the higher end. Most stock pieces ship in 3-7 business days; engraved, gemstone-set, or made-to-order designs typically take 1-3 weeks.

Hat Pins & Stick Pins: Handmade Gifts

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