Chapter 24 Sewing Equipment
413
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
just pins because the pins fall out of place before you use the marking. The
following are several types of pins:
• Dressmaker’s pins are medium in diameter with sharp points. Since they
are brass, they will not rust.
• Silk pins are very slender. They have the sharpest points and were fi rst
designed for use with silk or very fi ne fabrics which resulted in the name
silk pins. These pins are made of stainless steel or brass.
• Ballpoint pins are recommended for use with knit fabrics. The rounded point
slides between the yarns instead of cutting through them, preventing snags.
• Ball-headed pins have large, round heads. They are easy to see and to
handle.
Pincushions
Pincushions make it much easier to
pick up pins and replace them when pin-
ning a pattern to fabric or when joining
garment sections together. They also keep
pins from falling into the sewing machine
as you remove them.
Pincushions come in many shapes
and sizes. Some can be worn on your
wrist to keep the pins handy. Some are
magnetic. Others have a small strawberry-
shaped emery bag attached to them. You
can remove a rough spot or a dull point on
a needle or pin by pushing it into the bag
several times, 24-5.
Thimbles
When sewing by hand, a needle can damage your fi nger if you are working
with thick layers or tightly woven fabric. A thimble is a metal or plastic device
that is placed over the middle or ring fi nger of your sewing hand. You use it
to push the needle through the fabric. Thimbles are also available in leather.
These may be more comfortable and easier to fi t. Some leather thimbles have a
circle of textured metal over the pad of the fi nger.
Choose a thimble with deep enough grooves to hold the needle securely.
Try on a thimble when you buy it. It should be snug but not tight. If it is too
loose, you will not be able to use it successfully. It may feel awkward the fi rst
time you use it, but it will soon become a helpful tool, 24-6.
Sew Safely
Pins and needles belong in a pincushion, not in your mouth, when
not in use. Keep shears and scissors closed when not in use, and
pass them to others handles first.
24-5 This pincushion
has an emery bag
attached for use in
sharpening needles
and pins.
Prym-Dritz Corp.