Ever Wondered What That Tiny Hole in a Safety Pin Is For? The Answer Might Surprise You!
In today’s world of advanced sewing tools and digital machines, it’s easy to forget that some of the most practical techniques come from generations past. Many timeless sewing hacks, created long before modern gadgets, still outperform their high-tech replacements — proving that simplicity never goes out of style.
Let’s take a closer look at one small but brilliant invention: the safety pin. You’ve likely used one countless times, but have you ever noticed that tiny hole near the hinge and wondered why it’s there? It’s not just decorative — it has a smart purpose that dates back over a century.
That little hole helps the pin lock securely when it’s fastened. As you slide the pin into place, the pointed end fits through the coil and the hole area acts as a tension point, holding it tight so it won’t pop open accidentally. This clever bit of engineering is why safety pins are, well, safe — they stay shut even when twisted, pulled, or pressed against fabric.
Beyond that, seasoned sewists have found dozens of creative uses for this small but mighty tool — and many of them come from traditional sewing wisdom that still holds up today.
Timeless Tricks from the Past That Still Work Today
✨ Beeswax for thread – Before synthetic coatings existed, tailors used beeswax to keep thread smooth and tangle-free. Running the thread over a small block of wax made stitches glide effortlessly and last longer.
🧼 Soap for fabric marking – Instead of expensive chalk, old-school seamstresses used dry soap to mark fabric lines. It’s clean, precise, and washes out easily — a free and eco-friendly alternative that still works perfectly.
🪡 The power of backstitching – A simple backward stitch over the last few threads gives hand-sewn seams extra strength and prevents unraveling — an age-old trick that’s still essential for durability.
📍 Diagonal pinning – Pinning at an angle instead of straight helps fabric stay in place more securely and prevents needles from catching. This small adjustment makes a big difference in speed and precision.
🧵 Neat knot technique – Wrapping thread around the needle before pulling it through creates tight, tidy knots that sit flat on fabric — the mark of a true professional hand-stitch.
🔗 Safety pins for threading elastic – Fasten one end of elastic to a pin, and it easily glides through narrow casings or waistbands. It’s one of those tricks so effective that even modern guides still recommend it!
These classic techniques remind us that great craftsmanship doesn’t depend on fancy tools — it’s about creativity, care, and a bit of old-fashioned know-how. The next time you sew, keep these timeless tricks in mind — and remember, even that tiny hole in a safety pin has a big job to do.