How to Choose Safety Pins for Sewing Projects
By Prymamericas.com: Sewing, quilting, and knitting supplies | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Product Reviews
Not all safety pins are the same. This guide explains the differences between curved safety pins, star head pins, and glass head pins so you can pick the right one for quilting, basting, or general sewing.
Quick answer
Choose curved safety pins for quilt basting through multiple layers, star head pins for organizing quilt pieces with numbers or arrows, and glass head pins for general sewing or quilting where you need heat resistance and visibility.
Why pin shape and head type matter
Pins are not interchangeable. The shape of the pin shaft determines how well it penetrates layers, while the head type affects how you grip, press, and organize. Curved pins follow the natural curve of your hand, making them easier to push through thick batting. Straight pins with flat star heads let you label pieces or pressing directions. Glass heads withstand an iron's heat without melting, which is useful when you need to press near pins.
How to decide which safety pin to use
- For quilt basting through multiple layers: Use curved safety pins. Their angled design lets you push through thick batting and fabric without bending the pin, and the coil-less option reduces snagging.
- For organizing quilt pieces with a specific order: Use star head pins with printed numbers or arrows. The flat head stays put and the marking tells you which strip or block goes next or which way to press.
- For general sewing or quilting where you might press near pins: Use glass head pins. The glass head withstands iron heat without melting, and the bright colors (blue and yellow) are easy to spot. Available in 1-3/8" and 1-7/8" lengths. If you need a longer pin for thick fabrics, choose the 1-7/8" size.
Product facts at a glance
- Assorted Curved Safety Pins & Storage Box, 90 pc: Contains 60 curved pins and 30 coil-less pins in sizes including size 1, plus a reusable storage box. The curved shape penetrates multiple quilt layers without bending, and the coil-less pins reduce fabric snagging.
Assorted Curved Safety Pins & Storage Box, 90 pc - Flat Star Head Pins, White, 115 pc: Straight pins with white star-shaped heads printed with numbers or directional arrows for organizing quilt pieces. Numbered pins help you track the sewing order of strips or blocks, while arrow pins mark pressing direction.
Flat Star Head Pins, White, 115 pc
Which pin fits your project?
Best for
- Quilters basting thick layers with curved pins
- Sewists who need to label piece order or pressing direction with star head pins
- Anyone sewing or quilting near an iron who needs heat-resistant glass head pins
Not for
- Curved pins are not ideal for fine fabric or single-layer sewing where a straight pin is easier to control
- Star head pins are not designed for basting through multiple thick layers
- Glass head pins may break if stepped on or bent sharply; avoid using them as temporary closures on heavy items
