I keep two types of pins in my sewing kit. Firstly, ordinary sharp pins, but I prefer mine to have glass heads so that I can’t melt them if I touch them with an iron.
Secondly, I have some fine ballpoint pins which I keep to use on particularly delicate fabrics and on jersey. They do have a habit of slipping out so I definitely have to handle things carefully once they are pinned with these.
Finally, I have some quilting clips. These are great for anytime that pins are not your friend. Fabrics which might ladder or mark, waterproof fabrics or leather, net and fabrics that pins just fall back out of. Even anything which is a bit thick and bulky for pins can be clipped easily.
I keep my pins in little clippy boxes. They need to be big enough to get your hands in and out easily. Especially as I don’t like to stop sewing to remove my pins, I need to be able to find the pot while still watching the needle!
My clips stay safe in a little drawstring bag. These are so simple to make, and I always have plenty around to be used to wrap small presents or store odds and ends. I use a tutorial by Pam at Threading my Way which is super simple to follow, and creates a neat finished pouch. They are great for using up scraps or co-ordinating fat quarters!
Naomi Sews 