Pinces

When the pliers replace the pin

• Faux leather, oilcloth — the pinhole is permanent and visible. Pliers are the only option.
• Very thick — several layers of fabric and interlining, bag bottoms, belts.
• Bias and hems — the clip holds the fold better than a pin, without distorting it.
• Cardboard and gluing — to hold during drying time.
• Ribbing and stockinette stitch — the pin threads the stitch, the clip does not.

Practical advantages

Beyond delicate materials, the clip has three advantages that the pin does not have.

It is faster to install and remove, which counts on a long edge. It does not itch your fingers , a serious argument when working with children or handling a lot. And she doesn't get lost in the work — a pin forgotten in a finished cushion is a guaranteed unpleasant surprise.

Its disadvantage: it only holds on the edge, never in the middle of a room. For these cases, the pin remains necessary.

Choosing the right clip

The small clips , miniature hair clip type, are suitable for fine fabrics and bias binding. They are light and can be placed with one hand.

The wide jaw pliers hold very thick bags and bag assemblies. Check that the jaw is flat and not serrated, otherwise it will mark fragile materials.

The strong spring clips are used for gluing and cardboard, where pressure must be maintained for a long time. Insert a scrap of cardboard so as not to mark the surface.

A useful reference

Many fabric clips have a graduation on their flat side. Placed against the presser foot, the pliers then serve as a guide to check a seam allowance - an indirect but convenient use.

Also discover

Discover our pearl pliers , our sewing accessories and our needles and pins .