Every sewist has their favorite tools, and one debate always pops up in the sewing community: pins vs clips. Both hold fabric together while you sew, but they work very differently. And every sewist has strong opinions about which is better! In this post, I’ll share the pros and cons of both pins and clips, plus why I personally reach for clips almost every time.
Sewing Pins: The Classic Tool
Sewing pins have been around forever, and they’re often the first tool you’ll see in any beginner’s kit. They’re slim, precise, and inexpensive, but they do come with a few downsides.
Pros of Sewing Pins:
- Slim and precise for detailed work
- Perfect for curves and delicate seams
- Inexpensive and widely available
Cons of Sewing Pins:
- Can feel flimsy
- The pointy ends sometimes poke your fingers
- May leave tiny holes or snags in delicate fabrics
- Slower to put in and take out while sewing
Sewing Clips: The Modern Favorite
Sewing clips are a more recent addition to the sewing world, but they’ve become super popular, especially among quilters and crafters. Instead of piercing the fabric, they simply clip on, making them easy and safe to use.
Pros of Sewing Clips:
- Quick to clip on and remove while sewing
- Gentle on fabric, no holes or snags
- Sturdy, so they don’t bend or break easily
- Great for thick fabrics, layers, or quilting
- Safer for kids or beginners
Cons of Sewing Clips:
- Bulkier than pins
- Less precise for fine details
- Usually a bit more expensive than pins
👉 Personally, I prefer clips because they’re so much easier to work with. I don’t have to worry about stabbing my fingers, and they save me time when I’m sewing along a long seam.
Pins vs Clips: Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Pins | Clips |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | High, great for details | Less precise, bulkier |
| Ease of use | Slower, fiddly | Quick to attach/remove |
| Fabric safety | Can leave holes/snags | No damage |
| Best for | Curves, fine fabrics | Quilts, thick fabrics |
So… Which Should You Choose?
The truth is, both pins and clips have their place in sewing. If you work with delicate fabrics or need precise seams, pins might be your best friend. But if you’re sewing thicker projects, quilting, or just want to save time, clips are a fantastic alternative.
For me, clips are the clear winner. They’re sturdy, safe, and make the process so much smoother.
Join the Great Sewing Debate!
Now I want to hear from you:
👉 Are you Team Pins 🧷 or Team Clips 📎?
Drop your answer in the comments below and let’s settle this sewing debate once and for all!
