Question 1

What size pins should I use for quilting vs. dressmaking?

Accepted Answer

Use longer, thicker pins for quilting and shorter, finer ones for dressmaking. Quilting pins run about 1.75-2 inches (44-48 mm) to grab through three layers, while dressmaker pins are typically 1-1.5 inches with a 0.5-0.6 mm shaft. For silk, chiffon, or lawn, look for extra-fine pins around 0.4-0.5 mm so they don't leave permanent holes in the weave.

Question 2

What's the difference between head pins and eye pins in jewelry making?

Accepted Answer

Head pins have a flat or ball-shaped stopper at the bottom that keeps beads from sliding off, while eye pins end in a pre-formed loop for linking components into chains. Both come in standard lengths of 1-3 inches and gauges from 21 (sturdy) to 24-26 (fine, for pearls and small-hole beads). Buy both if you're making dangle earrings with connected segments.

Question 3

How much do craft pins cost from independent suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Expect $3-$10 for a tin of 100-250 sewing pins, $4-$15 for 50-100 jewelry head or eye pins in base metal, and $15-$40 for the same count in sterling silver or gold-filled. Bulk safety pins often run $5-$12 per 100-300 pieces. Handmade extras like decorative glass-head pin sets or magnetic pin dishes add $10-$25 to a listing.

Question 4

Are glass-head pins worth it over plastic-head pins?

Accepted Answer

Yes if you press as you sew — glass heads survive direct iron contact while plastic heads melt onto fabric and the soleplate. Glass-head pins usually cost only $1-$3 more per box of 100-250. Flat flower-head pins are the other press-safe option and lie flat under a quilting ruler, which makes them popular for patchwork and rotary cutting.

Question 5

What metal should jewelry pins be for sensitive ears?

Accepted Answer

Choose sterling silver, gold-filled, niobium, or surgical stainless steel head and eye pins for pieces that touch skin, since cheap brass or copper platings can contain nickel. Listings should state the base metal, not just the color. Sterling findings cost roughly 3-5x more than plated, but for earring dangles a 20-pack at $12-$25 is usually enough for 10 pairs.

Question 6

How fast do pin orders from small shops ship?

Accepted Answer

Most stocked pin listings ship in 1-3 business days since they're small, light items that often mail as letter post. Custom orders — engraved pin dishes, hand-wound decorative glass-head pins, or cut-to-length precious-metal head pins — typically take 1-2 weeks. Check the listing for pack count and shipping origin; overseas suppliers can add 2-4 weeks in transit.

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