Mastering the Art of Sewing: Can You Sew Over Pins?

Sewing enthusiasts will know the familiar struggle of accidentally sewing over a pin and breaking their needle or damaging their machine. This common mishap raises the question, can you sew over pins? This simple yet controversial topic has sparked debates among sewers for years. Some swear by sewing over pins, while others adamantly warn against it. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of sewing over pins and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision in your own sewing projects. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this is a question worth exploring. So, grab your thread and let’s dive in!

‘Introduction’

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the topic of sewing over pins! Sewing is a popular and enjoyable hobby for many, and one of the most commonly asked questions is whether or not it is safe to sew over pins. Some people swear by it, while others claim it should never be done. In this article, we will delve deeper into the topic of sewing over pins and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Understanding Pin Safety in Sewing

Pins are an essential tool in any sewing project, as they hold fabric pieces together while you stitch them. However, when it comes to using pins during the sewing process, there are two schools of thought – some believe they should be removed before sewing over them, while others argue that leaving them in is perfectly fine. So which approach is correct?

Firstly, let’s understand why some people choose to leave pins in their fabric while sewing. The main reason for this is convenience – removing pins can be time-consuming, and leaving them in allows for quicker and more efficient sewing. Moreover, some fabrics are more delicate than others and can easily shift or pucker without the support of pins. By leaving the pins in, you get a more stable fabric base that helps prevent any mishaps during stitching.

On the other hand, those who advocate for removing pins before stitching argue that leaving them in poses a considerable risk to your machine’s mechanics. The needle can hit a pin during sewing, causing damage to your machine’s internal parts – resulting in costly repairs.

The Dangers of Sewing Over Pins

As mentioned earlier, one significant risk associated with sewing over pins is damage to your machine’s needle and mechanisms. Besides that, there are other potential dangers that one should be aware of when considering whether or not to sew over pins.

One such danger is breaking the needle itself. Sewing over a pin can cause it to bend or break, leading to disastrous consequences for your sewing machine. The broken pieces of the needle can fly into your machine’s inner parts, causing damage and even jamming the machine completely. This is not only costly but can also be dangerous if you are working at high speeds.

Another risk is that of accidentally sewing through a pin. As you sew over a row of pins, there is a chance that one or more pins may move slightly, and the needle can accidentally sew through them. This can result in damage to your fabric, needle breakage or even cause an injury to your hand if it is too close to the sewing line.

Factors That Affect Sewing Over Pins

While we have discussed some potential dangers associated with sewing over pins, there are certain factors that can affect whether or not it is safe to do so.

One significant consideration to make is the type of fabric you are working with. As mentioned earlier, some fabrics, such as delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon, require extra support from pins during stitching. In this case, it may be safer to leave the pins in and sew over them.

Another factor is the type of sewing project you are working on. If you are using thicker fabrics or multiple layers, removing pins before sewing may be necessary as they can create bulges in the fabric and cause difficulties for your needle and machine.

Additionally, if you have an advanced or heavy-duty sewing machine designed for industrial use, it may be able to handle sewing over pins better than a regular home sewing machine.

Tips for Safely Sewing Over Pins

If after considering all factors you decide that you want to sew over pins, here are some tips to help you do so safely:

1. Invest in good quality pins – thin and sharp needles are less likely to bend or break when sewing over them.

2. Ensure that pins are inserted perpendicular to the fabric, so they are easier to remove when sewing over them.

3. Consider using an adjustable presser foot pressure on your machine to allow for thicker fabric and pins.

4. Sew slowly and carefully, keeping a close eye on the pins as you sew over them.

5. Always remove the pins after you have sewn over them – never leave them in while pressing or ironing your project.

In conclusion, sewing over pins can be a convenient option, but it does come with some risks. Carefully consider all factors involved in your particular sewing project before deciding whether or not to sew over pins. Ultimately, it is essential to prioritize safety and take precautionary measures while sewing to avoid any mishaps or costly repairs in the future. Happy sewing!

Can You Sew Over Pins: Understanding the Pros and Cons

Pinning fabric pieces together is a crucial step in the sewing process. It helps ensure that all the pieces align correctly and prevent any shifting while sewing. But what happens when you’re in a rush or simply forget to remove the pins as you sew? Can you sew over pins, or is it something you should avoid at all costs?

The answer is not as straightforward as a simple yes or no. There are various factors to consider, such as the type of fabric and pins used, the type of project you’re working on, and your sewing machine’s capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the pros and cons of sewing over pins to help you make an informed decision.

The Pros

One of the main benefits of sewing over pins is convenience. When working on large projects with multiple pieces that require precise alignment, it can be time-consuming to continuously remove and re-pin as you go along. Sewing over pins eliminates this step, saving you time and effort.

Moreover, some fabrics may be too delicate or prone to fraying, making it challenging to remove pins without damaging them. In such cases, sewing over pins can be a better option. It also allows for more accuracy and control when maneuvering bulky fabrics or intricate designs.

Another advantage of not removing pins while sewing is that they act as a stabilizer for your fabric layers. This added stability prevents puckering or shifting of fabric during stitching, ensuring clean and smooth seams.

The Cons

On the other hand, there are several drawbacks to consider when it comes to sewing over pins. The most significant risk is damaging your sewing machine’s needle or causing it to break mid-sew. The needle may hit a pin at an angle and bend or break, which can be dangerous.

You also run the risk of hitting the pin with the needle, causing it to fly out and potentially injure you or those around you. Additionally, if the pin remains in the fabric after stitching, it can cause discomfort when wearing or using the finished product.

Another drawback is that pins can cause your fabric to shift as you sew. This can result in uneven seams and inaccurate measurements, which can affect the overall look and fit of your project. It is particularly crucial when working on patterns with intricate details or symmetrical designs.

The Ideal Fabrics and Pins

Certain fabrics are more suitable for sewing over pins than others. Sturdy fabrics such as denim, canvas, or upholstery materials can withstand being sewn over pins without any issues. On the other hand, delicate fabrics like silk, lace, chiffon, or tulle are not recommended to be sewn over pins due to their delicate nature.

As for pins, traditional straight pins are not advisable to sew over. They can easily bend and cause damage to your machine’s needle or create an uneven seam due to their size and lack of flexibility. However, specialty pins like quilting pins or ballpoint pins designed for knits have more give and are less likely to damage your machine.

Alternatives

If you’re still unsure about sewing over pins or want to avoid any potential damage to your machine and needles altogether, there are alternatives you can try.

One option is using clips instead of pins. Clips provide a firm grip on fabric layers without causing any damage or interference while sewing. They are ideal for people who prefer not to use pins at all or for specific projects where pinning is not practical.

Another option is hand basting. Basting involves temporarily stitching fabric pieces together with a running stitch before permanently sewing them together using a sewing machine. Though it may take longer than working with pins, it provides greater control and ensures no pins are involved in the machine sewing process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, can you sew over pins? The answer is yes, but with caution. Sewing over pins can save time and provide stability for specific fabrics, but it also comes with risks of damaging your sewing machine and creating uneven seams. Always consider the type of fabric and pins being used, as well as the alternatives available. Ultimately, every sewer should weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on their personal preference and project requirements.

1) Can I sew over pins?
Yes, you can sew over pins but it is not recommended. It can be harmful to your sewing machine and cause distortion in your fabric.

2) Why is it not recommended to sew over pins?
When you sew over pins, the needle can strike the pin and cause it to bend or break. This can damage your sewing machine and potentially harm your fingers if the pin snaps.

3) What are some alternative methods for keeping fabric in place while sewing?
Some alternatives to sewing over pins include using clips or fabric weights, hand basting the fabric, or using specialized tools like a quilting ruler with gripper dots.

4) Is there ever a situation where it is okay to sew over pins?
There are some occasions where it may be necessary to sew over pins, such as when working with thick or difficult fabrics. However, it is still not recommended as it carries a risk of damaging your sewing machine.

5) What precautions should I take if I do need to sew over pins?
Make sure to use sharp and sturdy pins, avoid positioning them near the needle or presser foot, and go slowly while sewing. It may also be helpful to use a longer stitch length.

6) What should I do if my needle hits a pin while sewing?
If you feel or hear your needle hit a pin while sewing, stop immediately and check for any damage. Replace the needle if necessary and carefully remove any bent or broken pieces of the pin. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

In conclusion, while many people may have varying opinions on whether or not sewing over pins is a good practice, there are a few key points to consider. First, it is essential to properly secure your fabric and pins before sewing to prevent any accidents or damage to your machine. Additionally, sewing over pins can cause tension issues and affect the overall quality of your stitching. Secondly, removing pins as you sew may slow down your process, but it can ultimately result in smoother and more precise stitching.

Ultimately, the decision to sew over pins or not comes down to personal preference and experience. It’s crucial to experiment and find what works best for you and your machine. However, it is essential to keep in mind the potential risks of sewing over pins and the benefits of removing them while sewing.

Regardless of your stance on this issue, one thing is clear- prioritizing safety should always be the top priority when it comes to any form of sewing. Whether it’s taking the time to properly secure your fabric or removing pins as you go along, investing in safety measures can go a long way in ensuring the longevity of your projects and machines.

In summary, while there may be arguments for both sides of whether you can sew over pins, one thing is certain- with patience and proper precautions

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.