You’ve probably used safety pins countless times — to fix a loose hem, secure a button, or rescue a broken zipper. But have you ever noticed that tiny little hole near the clasp? Most people assume it’s just a random manufacturing quirk. In reality, it’s a smart, functional feature designed with a very specific purpose in mind.

That small hole actually helps you thread items like elastic bands, ribbons, or drawstrings through narrow fabric channels — such as waistbands, hoodie hoods, or the casing of a sewing project.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Thread a small piece of string, yarn, or cord through the hole.

2. Tie or secure it so it doesn’t slip out while you work.

3. Insert the safety pin into your fabric casing and start guiding it through.

4. The attached string acts as a handle — giving you extra control so you can push, pull, or reposition the pin if it gets stuck in a tight spot.

In short:
🔹 The hole serves as an anchor point for better handling.
🔹 It prevents the pin from getting lost inside the fabric tunnel.
🔹 It makes threading tasks faster, smoother, and far less frustrating.

It’s a subtle design detail, but once you start using it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Sometimes the smartest innovations are the smallest ones!

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Timeless Sewing Tricks That Deserve a Comeback

While modern sewing machines and gadgets make life easier, some of the best sewing wisdom comes straight from the old days. These classic “grandma-approved” tips still work beautifully — and might even make your sewing projects feel more satisfying.

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1. Use Dry Soap to Mark Fabric

No tailor’s chalk or fabric marker nearby? Grab a sliver of dry soap instead. It leaves crisp, visible marks that wash out effortlessly and won’t damage delicate fabrics. It’s sustainable, inexpensive, and always handy — especially for quick alterations or last-minute fixes.

Pro tip: Keep a small piece of leftover soap in your sewing kit. It’s lightweight, mess-free, and doubles as a fresh scent for your fabric drawer.

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2. Reinforce Seams with Backstitching

Want your seams to last longer? At the beginning and end of each stitch line, sew backward a few centimeters before moving forward again. This simple trick, called backstitching, locks the seam in place, preventing it from unraveling even after multiple washes.

It’s a small detail, but one that separates beginner-level sewing from long-lasting, professional-quality results.

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3. Pin Diagonally for a Stronger Hold

Instead of pinning your fabric at a strict right angle, insert the pins diagonally along the seam line. This technique helps hold the fabric more securely and prevents shifting as you sew.

Diagonal pinning also makes pins easier (and safer) to remove on the go — so your stitches stay smooth, even, and frustration-free.

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4. Create Strong Knots with a Simple Wrap

A neat, sturdy knot can make all the difference in the finish of your work. Try this tried-and-true method: wrap the thread around the needle a few times before pulling it tight. You’ll end up with a tiny, compact knot that stays secure and looks clean.

This trick is perfect for hemming, embroidery, and hand-finishing touches — giving your projects that extra polish.

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5. Strengthen Your Thread with Beeswax

Before you start stitching, run your thread across a block of beeswax. This vintage habit reduces fraying and tangling, helps the thread glide through fabric smoothly, and makes the final seam stronger and cleaner.

It’s a small extra step that can save you time, effort, and headaches — and it leaves your sewing feeling silky and professional.

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Final Thoughts

From the hidden purpose of a tiny hole in a safety pin to the time-tested tricks of generations past, sewing is full of clever details that make everyday tasks easier. These small insights remind us that craftsmanship isn’t just about tools — it’s about knowing the little secrets that turn ordinary moments into small victories.

So next time you reach for a safety pin or thread a needle, try one of these old-school hacks. You might just fall in love with sewing all over again.