Sewing is a beloved craft that empowers individuals to transform fabric into artistry, whether through crafting garments, quilting, or creating decorative items.
Among the myriad of techniques and practices within sewing, the question of whether one can sew over pins often arises.
In this exploration, we delve into the art of sewing and unravel the age-old debate surrounding pins. Is it acceptable to stitch right through them, or should they be meticulously removed?
Discover the nuances, benefits, and precautions associated with this common query. Understanding when and how to sew over pins can elevate your sewing prowess and the quality of your finished creations.
Can You Sew Over Pins?
The short answer is yes, technically, you can sew over pins. Sewing over pins is a common topic of debate among sewers and quilters.
Many beginners wonder whether it’s safe to sew over pins or if it should be avoided at all costs.
Most modern sewing machines are designed to handle sewing over pins without damaging the machine or causing major issues with your sewing project. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
What to Consider When Sewing Over Pins
You can sew over pins, but there are some important considerations and best practices to keep in mind to ensure your safety and the quality of your sewing projects.
Here are some key points to remember when sewing over pins:
Use the Right Pins
It’s important to use the right type of pins for sewing. Straight pins with a flat head are commonly used in sewing.
They come in various lengths and thicknesses to accommodate different fabrics and projects. The pins should be sharp and in good condition to prevent snagging or damaging the fabric.
Pin Placement
When pinning your fabric pieces together, make sure to place the pins parallel to the sewing line and perpendicular to the edge.
This will allow you to sew over the pins more easily without causing damage to your sewing machine or needles.
Additionally, leave enough space between the pins and the sewing line to ensure a smooth sewing process.
Remove Pins as You Go
While it’s technically possible to sew over pins, it’s generally recommended to remove them as you sew. As you approach a pin, stop sewing, lift the presser foot, and gently remove the pin. This prevents the pins from causing any disruption to your sewing machine, breaking needles, or damaging the fabric.
Consider Hand Basting
For more delicate or intricate projects, consider using hand basting or temporary fabric adhesive to secure your fabric layers instead of relying solely on pins.
This can be especially useful when working with delicate fabrics like silk or lightweight materials.
Slow and Steady
When sewing over pins, take it slow and maintain a steady pace. This allows you to have better control over your sewing machine and reduces the risk of hitting a pin at high speed, which could potentially cause a needle to break or bend.
Use a Walking Foot
If you frequently work with thick or multiple layers of fabric, using a walking foot attachment on your sewing machine can help feed the fabric evenly and reduce the chances of sewing mishaps when going over pins.
Practice and Experience
Over time, as you gain more experience and confidence in your sewing skills, you’ll develop a better sense of when it’s safe to sew over pins and when it’s best to remove them. Practice and familiarity with your machine are key to making these decisions effectively.
Best Practices for Pinning and Sewing
Pinning and sewing are fundamental aspects of sewing and quilting, and using best practices in these areas can significantly improve the quality and efficiency of your projects.
Here are some best practices for pinning and sewing:
Remove Pins Before Sewing
To ensure the best results and avoid potential problems, it’s generally recommended to remove pins before they reach the needle. This might seem like an extra step, but it can save you time and frustration in the long run.
Use Clips or Alternative Fasteners
If you’re concerned about removing pins while sewing, consider using clips or other sewing tools designed for holding fabric together.
These alternatives are less likely to interfere with your sewing machine and can provide a secure hold without the risk of damage.
Proper Pin Placement
When pinning your fabric, make sure to place pins perpendicular to the stitching line. This minimizes the risk of the needle hitting the pin.
Practice
If you decide to sew over pins occasionally, make sure to practice on scrap fabric first. Get a feel for how your machine handles it and be prepared for any issues that may arise.
Why You Should Avoid Sewing Over Pins in Some Cases?
Avoiding sewing over pins in some cases is important for specific reasons.
Here they are:
Needle Damage
Sewing over pins can cause significant damage to your sewing machine’s needle. A needle hitting a pin can easily bend or break, potentially leading to further problems like thread jams or timing issues.
Fabric Damage
Pins can also damage your fabric. When a pin is sewn over, it may shift or bend, leaving an unintended crease or hole in your material.
This can be particularly problematic if you’re working with delicate or expensive fabrics.
Safety
While most modern machines can handle sewing over pins, it’s not the safest practice. If a needle hits a pin and breaks, there’s a risk of flying metal parts. This can be dangerous, especially if you’re not wearing safety glasses.
Stitch Quality
Sewing over pins can result in uneven or skipped stitches. Pins can disrupt the smooth flow of fabric through the machine, leading to stitching issues that may require rework.
Can You Sew With Pins in the Fabric?
Yes, you can sew with pins in the fabric, but it’s essential to follow some best practices to ensure safe and effective sewing.
Here are they
Proper Pin Placement
When sewing with pins in the fabric, make sure to insert them perpendicular to the seam line and away from the stitching path. This reduces the risk of the needle hitting the pins.
Remove Pins Before They Reach the Needle
It’s generally recommended to remove the pins just before they reach the sewing machine’s needle. This minimizes the chances of damaging the needle, the machine, or the fabric.
Use Fine Pins
Consider using fine, sharp pins that are less likely to leave noticeable holes in the fabric when removed.
Sew Slowly
When sewing with pins in place, go at a slower, controlled pace. This allows you to monitor the pins’ position and avoid sewing directly over them.
Practice on Scrap Fabric
If you’re new to sewing with pins in the fabric, practice on scrap fabric to get a feel for it. This will help you develop the necessary skills and confidence.
Can You Iron Over Pins?
Ironing over pins can be done in some cases, but it’s important to proceed with caution and use some best practices to minimize the risks of damaging your fabric or your iron.
Here’s how you can iron over pins:
Choose the Right Pins
Use pins with heat-resistant heads, such as those made of glass or metal. Avoid pins with plastic heads, as they can melt when exposed to the heat of an iron.
Pin Placement
Ensure that the pins are evenly spaced and parallel to the seam or edge you’re pressing. The pins should be placed in a way that allows you to iron over them without hitting the pinheads directly.
Ironing Technique:
- Use a low to medium heat setting on your iron. The exact temperature will depend on the type of fabric you’re working with.
- Place the iron on the fabric and gently press down. Avoid pressing too hard or using a lot of force, as this can cause the pins to dig into the fabric.
- When you encounter a pin while ironing, lift the iron slightly and glide it over the pinhead without applying too much pressure. You should be able to feel the pin under the fabric, but it should not hinder the iron’s movement.
Remove Pins as You Go
It’s a good practice to remove the pins as you approach them with the iron. This reduces the risk of damaging the fabric or the pins and ensures that you don’t accidentally iron over a pinhead.
Check for Fabric Compatibility
Not all fabrics are suitable for ironing over pins. Delicate or easily damaged fabrics, like silk or satin, are best pressed without pins. Always consider the fabric’s tolerance for heat and pin use.
Use a Pressing Cloth
If you’re concerned about potential pin marks on your fabric, you can place a pressing cloth (a piece of muslin or cotton fabric) between the iron and the fabric. This adds an extra layer of protection.
Test on Scrap Fabric
If you’re unsure about ironing over pins, it’s a good idea to test the technique on a scrap piece of fabric before working on your actual project.
FAQS
Can I sew over pins with a serger machine?
Sewing over pins with a serger (overlock) machine is generally discouraged because the knife and loopers on the machine can be damaged or misaligned by hitting a pin.
Is it okay to sew over pins when working with leather or vinyl?
Sewing over pins is not recommended when working with leather or vinyl, as these materials are often thicker and more resistant to sewing machine needles.
Should I use a particular type of pin when sewing over pins?
While flat-headed straight pins are commonly used in sewing, some sewers prefer using silk pins with finer fabrics, as they are less likely to leave visible holes.
Can I sew over pins when quilting?
Quilters often prefer to remove pins before sewing, especially when machine quilting, as this helps maintain the evenness of the fabric layers.
Can sewing over pins affect the longevity of my sewing machine?
Yes, repeatedly sewing over pins can cause damage to your sewing machine’s needle, presser foot, or even its timing mechanism over time.
To Recap
The decision of whether to sew over pins or remove them depends on your comfort level, the type of fabric and project you’re working on, and your overall sewing experience.
While sewing over pins is technically possible, it’s generally advisable to remove them as you go to prevent potential mishaps, like broken needles or damage to your sewing machine.
However, with practice, you can develop the skills and judgment to safely sew over pins when necessary, especially for thicker fabrics or less delicate projects.
Ultimately, the key to successful sewing lies in understanding the nuances of pin usage and employing the best technique for each specific sewing endeavor, ensuring both precision and safety in your craft.
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