10 Best Quilting Pins for Basting, Piecing, Applique and Patchwork

By
Jean Chaney
Jean Chaney
Research Writer
Jean is the brains behind her fashion label. She's a whiz with a needle and thread, and has been sewing since she was old enough to hold a pair of scissors. Jean has always read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Isabel Misner
Isabel Misner
Expert Consultant
A professional seamstress. Isabel has her own video blog where she shares her experience about all the aspects of sewing – from choosing suitable materials to step-by-step read more
Last updated: August 18, 2023
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Every quilter knows they can’t afford to not have quilting pins in their kit. There are various types of quilting pins that serve different purposes from multiple brands. So, which are the best quilting pins to go with? Well, first off, you need something strong and long enough to go through all the layers of your fabric without damaging them. Most importantly, they should be easy to find, both on your project or on the floor.

We rounded up the 10 highest-rated quilting pins on the market with the Clover Quilting Pins as our top pick to help you make a wise choice. Some of the features we considered in our review include curved vs. straight, length, materials, and head style. They all determine the efficiency, convenience, and ease of use of the pins. For instance, a long pin with a heat-resistant head style will grip your fabrics really strong and pin a couple of layers as well as allow you to have an ironing or steaming session.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Clover Quilting Pins
    "Three packs of high-quality quilting pins with iron proof glass heads. 48 mm long. 0.6 mm in diameter. 100 pcs each pack."
  • Best Safety Pins for Quilting: NiftyPlaza Extra Large Safety Pin
    "A box of extra-large rust-resistant curved pins. 2” long. 1440 pcs."
  • Best Basting Pins: Dritz 3009 Quilting Pins
    "500 pieces of stainless steel pins with plastic ball heads. 1-3/4” long. Reusable plastic storage box."
  • Best Decorative Quilting Pins Set: Happon 200Pcs Quilting Pins
    "200 pieces of stainless steel quilting pins with two different head shapes. 2.1” long. Butterfly and flower heads. Clear plastic box."
  • "1000 pieces of straight pins made with robust steel and glass that come 10 clear storage boxes. 1.5” long. Glass ball heads. High temperature resistant."
  • "1000 pieces of stainless steel quilting pins with 3mm glass ball heads. 38 mm long. 0.6 mm wire. 10 most common colors."
  • "Three packs of nickel-plated steel pins with glass ball heads. 1.5” long. 1/8” heads. Multi-color."
  • "500 pieces of nickel-plated steel quilting pins with plastic heads of different shapes. 4.5 cm long. Rust-resistant."
  • "200 pieces of nickel-plated steel quilting pins with flower-shaped heads. 1.8” long. Four colors."
  • Best Multipack: EZ Quilting Glass Head Pins
    "Twelve packs of stainless steel quilting pins with glass ball heads. 1.25” long. 150 pcs in each pack."

Top 10 Quilting Pins Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9580 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.8
1
Editor’s Choice

Clover Quilting Pins

Features
  • Materials: iron proof glass head
  • Length: 48 mm
  • Quantity: 100 pcs

Other features: 3-pack, 0.6 mm in diameter

Clover is a substantial brand in the artisan world, known for producing high-quality sewing notions and quilting tools. All their tools are designed to provide accuracy and simplify your experience and these quilting pins do not fall short.

The quilting pins come in a package that contains 100 pieces. These can last you a while, and even if you lost any you’d still have a few more to help you with a couple of projects.

The head of the pin is made with iron proof glass, therefore, you wouldn’t have to worry about getting them all off before ironing or steaming your projects before completion.

With a length of 48mm and a diameter of 6mm, you can easily pin several layers of fabric. It is thick enough to offer a firm hold of your fabric yet thin enough with a sharp tip to easily pass through the fabric.

What’s more, they are magnetic, so you can stick them to a Grabit magnetic pin cushion for organization. You wouldn’t have a hard time picking them up in case they fall on the floor.

All considered, these are one the best thin pins for quilting with convenient pricing.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Reputable brand
  • Affordable
  • High-quality materials
  • Heat resistant head
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Small heads- Hard to pick up
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4406 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.7
2
Best Safety Pins for Quilting

NiftyPlaza Extra Large Safety Pin

Features
  • Materials: 0.040 gauge steel wire
  • Length: 2”
  • Quantity: 1440 pcs

Other features: rust-resistant, status closed position

These are the ideal pins for basting your quilts and pinning its top, wadding and back before you start working on it. They are super easy to work with and remove thanks to their humongous size.

The safety pins are built strong and sturdy at par with industrial standards with gauge steel wire. This means they can hold multiple layers of fabric firmly without bending. The material is also rust-resistant thus highly durable.

The 2-inch length is also another feature that allows you to hold several layers of fabric.

Essentially, this is one of the best economical packages with 1440 pieces inside at a very affordable price. Other than being high-quality, its value for money makes it one of the best safety pins for quilting out there.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Durable build-industrial standards
  • Rust-resistant material
  • Easy to work with and remove
  • Great length
  • Offers excellent value for money
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Complaints-Not sharp enough for certain fabrics
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8165 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.5
3
Best Basting Pins

Dritz 3009 Quilting Pins

Features
  • Materials: plastic, steel
  • Length: 1-3/4”
  • Quantity: 500 pcs

Other features: ball heads, packaged in a reusable plastic storage box

Dritz is another substantial brand that is famed by multiple DIY enthusiasts and professionals across the globe. These quilting pins are one of their innovative and high-quality products in their quilting notions line.

The straight pins come in a reusable plastic box and are sturdily built with tough steel for long-lasting performance. The steel is rust-free and tough enough to grip fabric really strong without breaking or bending.

The box contains 500 pieces of pins. With pins, the more the better and with such an attractive price tag, these pins stand out as one of the best affordable out there.

The pins’ versatility doesn’t stop at basting quilt layers and holding multiple layers of fabric. You can also use it to hold loose weaves, plush velvets, synthetic furs and many other bulky fabrics.

You can see the yellow ball heads of the pins easily however bulky your project is. They also wouldn’t disappear on the floor.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Can be seen easily
  • Strong steel build
  • Great value for money
  • Reusable plastic box
    What could be better?
  • Complaints-The needle thimble is a bit dull
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3393 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.3
4
Best Decorative Quilting Pins Set

Happon 200Pcs Quilting Pins

Features
  • Materials: stainless steel, plastic
  • Length: 2.1”
  • Quantity: 200 pcs

Other features: butterfly and flower heads, clear plastic box

This is by far the best versatile quilting pin sets on this list. It offers a wide range of applications which explains why it is famous amongst DIYers who are into decorative quilting and embroidery.

The pins come in a clear plastic box. The box contains 200 pieces, with 2 different head shapes. All the pins’ needles are made with durable steel for added strength and long-lasting performance while the heads are made with plastic in 2 different shapes.

The multicolored heads have the butterfly and floral shape which are very easy to spot in fabric. The pins’ needles are sharp and thin enough to go through fabric fast and easy. They are also rust-resistant and you can attach them on a magnet.

Measuring 2.1 inches long, you are assured of a firm grip on multiple layers of different types of fabrics.

Overall, this is one of the best straight pins for quilting out there that can serve a myriad of purposes. Plus, the manufacturer offers a 24-hour after-sales service.

    What do we love it for?
  • Different head styles
  • Versatile
  • Exceptionally long-2.1 inches
  • 24-hours after-sale service
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Plastic heads
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5439 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.1
Features
  • Materials: steel, glass
  • Length: 1.5”
  • Quantity: 1000 pcs

Other features: ball heads, eco-friendly, high temperature resistant

So, you mind the environment and you just got your hand in quilting? This is the ultimate set to add to your quilting kit. Plus, it is conveniently priced for a beginner and frankly, it such a huge steal with all its first-rate features.

The straight pins come in a package of 10 clear storage boxes. You get a total of 1000 pins made durably and beautifully with robust steel and glass. The steel shaft is 1.5 inches long and is smooth and sharp enough to slide through fabric neatly and easily without snagging.

The glass head are not only eco-friendly but also heat resistant. Therefore, you can iron or steam your fabrics with them on. They are also brightly colored for easy identification. Each box contains pins with a different candy color.

Overall, if you are looking for a set of pins with a beginner-friendly price but of high quality look no further.

    What do we love it for?
  • Multiple bright color stitches
  • Glass heads- heat resistant
  • Multi-functional
  • Sharp and smooth shaft
    What were we disappointed with?
  • The heads are rather small
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8172 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
8.9
Features
  • Materials: high-quality glass, stainless steel
  • Length: 38 mm
  • Quantity: 1000 pcs

Other features: 3 mm ball heads, 10 most common colors, 0.6 mm wire

Any professionals in the house? This is the ideal package for intermediate and professional quilters. You can use for a wide range of decorative purposes not only for quilting but also for dressmaking jewelry decoration, handcraft, and creative art design among others.

The pins have a robust and durable build that won’t bend or oxidize easily. They are made of stainless steel and high-quality glass. They come packaged in clear plastic boxes which come in handy when it comes to organizing and saving the pins.

The heads come in 10 different colors for variety and easy identification. Since they are made with glass you can iron and steam with no worries.

With a length of 38mm you can hold several layers of certain types of fabric together.

    What stands out?
  • Highly versatile
  • Multiple needles (1000) pieces
  • Robust build
  • Various head colors
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • A bit dull and can bend easily if mishandled
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3354 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.7
Features
  • Materials: nickel-plated steel, glass
  • Length: 1.5”
  • Quantity: 500 pcs

Other features: 3-pack, 1/8” ball heads, heat-resistant, multi-color

Here is another penny worthy gem of a product. The quilting pin set does a fantastic job at marking, basting and pinning fabrics for patchwork, sewing or creating other crafts.

The pins have a robust build. They are made of nickel-plated steel for added durability and resistance to rust. Their shafts are not only strong but also smooth and thin enough to go through fabric easily without leaving large holes behind.

The pin heads are made with heat resistant glass and are multi-coloured for easy identification. They can also add color and fun dimensions to your scrapbooks and any other crafts.

The pins come in 3 clear plastic storage boxes, each containing 500 pieces. With a length of 1.5inches, you can easily pin thick layers of fabric together for convenience.

All in all, this is one of the best options for anyone looking for a set with multiple pins at an affordable price.

    Why is it special?
  • Multiple pins
  • Great value for money
  • Durable build
  • Great for Patchwork
    What are the flaws?
  • Complaints-Shorter than promised
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6281 people in the past 30 days
8.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.6
Features
  • Materials: nickel-plated steel, plastic
  • Length: 4.5 cm
  • Quantity: 500 pcs (in total)

Other features: buttons, bow tie, butterfly, dark & light plum flower heads

This is the ultimate choice for anyone who likes to incorporate stylish pieces in their kit. The pins come with beautiful shapes and colors that are not only stylish but also easy to identify both on your projects and when they fall.

The pins are made to last with high-quality nickel-plated steel. A full package contains 500 pieces making them such a huge steal at such a convenient price. The steel is rust-resistant and you can attach them on a magnet organizer.

Essentially, the pins are extremely long, measuring 4.5cm. You will be able to pin several layers of fabric or any thick fabric. Plus, they are nicely thin with a sharp tip to easily go through fabric.

The only downside to these pins is that their heads are made with plastic, so you would have to remove them before ironing or steaming. On the flip side though, you can see them from afar.

Overall, these are one of the best straight pins for quilting.

    What makes it stand out?
  • High-quality rust-resistant material
  • Multiple pieces in a pack
  • Exceptionally long
  • Multiple head shape and color options
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Plastic heads
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2508 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.2
Features
  • Materials: nickel-plated steel, plastic
  • Length: 1.8”
  • Quantity: 200 pcs

Other features: flower-shaped heads, four colors

Bang for your bucks? Look no further. This is one of the best sets out there that balances affordability and quality. Quilting enthusiasts and beginners will appreciate the irresistible price tag on this set and the convenience it has to offer.

The pins come in a clear plastic box. The package has 200 colorful pins. The pins are made of strong steel wire that is nickel-plated to make them rust-free.

The pinheads are made of plastic with a flower shape. They come in 3 different bright colors which are easy to identify both on fabric and when they get lost. They also add a colorful vibrance to any of your craft projects.

The pins are 1.8-inch long thus can be used to hold many layers of fabric or any types of thick materials. This makes a perfect choice for marking or decorating various DIY projects. Plus, They are thin enough to go through fabric easily and you can also sew over them.

In conclusion, any beginner quilter would benefit highly from this set not only because of its affordability but also the efficiency and convenience it offers.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Offers excellent value for money
  • Thin and long enough
  • Colorful
  • Best for beginners
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Complaints- They are a little stiff and can easily bend if mishandled
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4144 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.4
10
Features
  • Materials: steel, glass head
  • Length: 1.25”
  • Quantity: 150 pcs

Other features: 12-pack, ball head

This is the prime pick for anyone on the market for a multipack. It is ideal for professionals who handle multiple projects at the same time.

The pins come in 12 packs and each pack contains 150 pieces. The pins are built to withstand any sort of abuse with tough steel. Their heads are made with glass and with the colorful ball shape on each of them, you can easily spot them in fabric.

They are long enough, measuring 1.25 inches. You can also choose to go for the package that has 2-inch long pieces.

With the glass head, you can safely iron or steam your fabrics without worrying about causing damage to the pins.

All considered this is one of the best multipack straight pins for professional quilters who handle so many projects and would, therefore, need as many pins as possible.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Durable build
  • Glass heads-Heat resistant
  • Multipack
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • -

Things to Consider

Now that you know the essence of having quilting pins in your quilting kit, you need to know what to be keen on when buying to pick the best suitable set. This section has all the details you need to consider before buying quilting pins like why you need them and the essential features that make them efficient and convenient.

Why buy pins for quilting?

You need quilting pins for basting, piecing, needle-turn applique work and patchwork. They are essential as they help you pin layers of fabrics and generally hold everything in place before you begin quilting.

Features to consider when buying quilting pins

10 Best Quilting Pins for Basting, Piecing, Applique and Patchwork

Here are some of the essential features that you must pay attention to for you make the best buy.

Straight vs. curved

You can use either a straight or curved pin to baste before quilting. A curved pin is slightly bent and It makes it easier both to come back up through the layers of fabric compared to a straight pin.

Head type

The type of material used to make the pinhead determines if you can iron your fabric with it on or you have to remove them first. A glass pinhead like that of Walfront 1000Pcs Straight Pins above is the best as it is heat-resistant, thus allows you to steam and iron. Also, go for brightly colored pinheads for easy identification both on the project and on the floor.

Pin length and width

This determines how firm the pin will grip the layers of your fabric.

The best length is anything above 1.5 inches, especially if you intend to work with really thick fabrics.

A 2-inch long pin like the Happon 200Pcs Quilting Pins above can hold several layers perfectly well. 0.6mm is the best width that wouldn’t leave a large hole in your fabric and would also go through it smoothly without snagging.

Materials

Materials determine the quality of the pins. Stainless steel, brass and nickel are the common materials used to make quilting pins. Ensure you choose one that is made of either as they offer great durability and sturdiness and, they are also rust-resistant. As for the heads, some are made with plastic and yet others glass. Glass is way better than plastic as it is heat resistant.

Quantity

Go for a package that offers multiple pins like the Kingrol 1500 Quantity Sewing Pins with Glass Heads reviewed above. For pins, the more the better as they come in handy and serve various purposes during sewing and quilting.

Storage

Pins that come in clear plastic boxes are better because they act as storage cases and make it easier to organize the pins to prevent losses and damages.

FAQ

What is a quilting pin?

Quilting pins are pins used for basting layers of fabric together when making a quilt. They can also be used to hold fabric together for patchwork, piecing and creating crafts.

What are curved safety pins used for?

They are used for quilt basting but they are easier to use as they penetrate and leave the multiple layers of fabric easily without shifting.

How do you baste a quilt with safety pins?

First off, you mark the quilt for quilting using chalk or a contrasting pencil, then make the quilt sandwich. You can then baste the quilt sandwich to hold the layers of the fabric together.

Our verdict

Whether you are a professional quilter or a novice who just got a hand at it, quilting pins are a must-have. With all the tips above, you can’t fail to get something that suits your preferences and budget. You can as well go with any of the models we have reviewed in detail above as they are amongst the highest rated with top quality on the market.

The Clover Quilting Pins was our best overall pick. The iron-proof glass and incredible length made it stand out. The NiftyPlaza Extra Large Safety Pins live up to its name with its nifty build. It set itself apart with an incredibly long rust-resistant shaft and multiple pieces (1440).

Another option that is worth mentioning is the DORATA 500 Pcs Quilting Pins with Cases. It stood out with the beautifully shaped multi-colored pinheads. It also boasts a durable build that is rust-resistant. Its length also makes it one of the best quilting pins for various types of fabrics.

9,8
Total Score
Clover Quilting Pins - Editor’s Choice
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