Twist Pins -A thumbtack-style pin, which has a plastic head, and a short corkscrew type shaft.These pins are usually about 1' long, perfect for pinning accurate pleats. Pleating Pins -Fine, strong and sharp pins.These pins are also great for lining up plaids, stripes and other geometric designs. This pin has two prongs which curve up at the end, allowing you to pin difficult to handle fabrics together, such as linings, without having to lift them. Fork Pins -Fine, 15/8' long pins, with a double pronged end.These pins are usually used in upholstery, and for outdoor projects.

T-Pins -A 13/4' long, thick pin, which pierces and holds heavier weight fabrics.

The long length means they rarely slip out of place.

Quilting Pins - Long, thin pins, made especially for pinning through multiple layers of fabric and batting.

Dressmaking Pins - Usually 1.5' in length, appropriate for all different types of sewing!.

The smaller size is perfect as you can put lots of pins close together, without them overlapping.

Appliqué Pins -A 1/2' to 3/4' length pin, perfect for applying appliqué, trim and sequins.

Ballpoint Pins -Perfect for use on stretch and knit fabrics, with a rounded tip to push the fabric fibres aside, rather than piercing through them.

Extra-Sharp Pins -Long, fine, tapered pins, with a sharp point designed for use on delicate fabrics.

Sharps Pins -An all-purpose pin, perfect for all different weight and compositions of fabric.

These have small, ball-shaped heads that are easy to see and that don't melt when heat is applied.

Glass Headed Pins -Similar to ball-shaped plastic headed pins.

These pins have heads that may melt if heat and pressure are applied. You can also get larger, flower-shaped plastic head pins, which are easy to spot, and lie flat against the fabric, perfect for pinning Lace, Eyelet fabric and loose Woven fabric.

Plastic Headed Pins -Ball-shaped, plastic head pins come in a variety of sizes and colours.

This type of pin can be difficult to see on textured or heavily patterned fabrics.

Thread will not catch on these pins, so they are good for hand sewing. These pins can be pressed with a hot iron. Flat Headed Pins -Also called 'no-head' pins.Here are different styles of pins, and what they can be used for While there are many different types available, they essentially have the same components, the head, point and shaft, and simply vary by thickness, length and metal content. There are many different types of pin available, and this guide is designed to help you figure out which type is best to use on your project. Not only do they hold pattern pieces in place, but they can be used for fitting garments, holding on trims and maintaining seam allowances. Pins may be a small (and easily lost!) sewing tool, but they play a big part in the making process of any garment.

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