The safety pin, also known as  a safety pin , is one of those small objects we all have at home, but few of us take the time to look at closely. It’s used to fasten clothes, mend torn garments, or improvise last-minute solutions. However, there’s one detail that most people overlook:  that small hole in the spring part .

Although it seems like a simple aesthetic design, it actually has a key function that few know about. And if you’ve ever wondered why it’s there, you’ll be surprised to discover its purpose and some sewing tricks our grandmothers used with these modest, yet ingenious, objects.

Grandma’s sewing tricks

Grandmothers were true masters of sewing, capable of mending any garment with ingenuity and patience. Their methods, though simple, were very effective, and many are still used today.

1. Threading the elastic through with a safety pin:
   This classic trick never fails. To change or adjust elastic, simply hook one end of the elastic onto the safety pin and slide it through the elastic band. It makes the job easier and prevents the elastic from twisting or getting lost inside the fabric.
2. Preventing thread tangling:
   Before you start sewing, dampen the thread with a little wax or lip balm. This prevents tangling and allows you to sew more smoothly and neatly.
3. Reinforcing loose buttons:
   To make buttons last longer, pass the thread through the holes several times and, when finished, wrap the thread around the button’s shank. This small reinforcement prevents it from loosening with use.
4. Temporary no-sew hems:
   If you need to adjust pants or a skirt quickly, use double-sided tape or a little fabric glue. It’s a quick trick that keeps the hem in place until you can sew it properly.
5. To accurately mark the center of a garment,
   fold the fabric in half and iron it gently. The mark will be perfectly visible and will serve as a guide for sewing or cutting symmetrically.

What is the hole in the safety pin for?

That small  hole at the end of the safety pin’s spiral  isn’t there by chance. Its main function is  to maintain the spring’s tension , distributing the force when the pin opens and closes. Thanks to this design, the metal doesn’t deform, and the safety pin can be used hundreds of times without losing its shape or its closing strength.

Furthermore, the hole acts as an  anchor point , preventing the needle from detaching from its base and ensuring the pin remains closed even under pressure or movement. In other words, that small detail is what makes the safety pin truly  secure .

Helpful tips for making the most of safety pins

• Always keep several sizes on hand:  small ones are ideal for underwear or fine sewing, while large ones are good for blankets, backpacks, or thick clothing.
• Clean them occasionally:  with use, they can rust. Wipe them with a cloth dampened with vinegar and dry them thoroughly to prolong their lifespan.
• Store them closed:  avoid punctures and protect the tip so it doesn’t lose its sharpness.
• Use them as an auxiliary tool:  you can untangle chains, open stuck zippers, or improvise a pendant or brooch.

The safety pin, that little hero of the sewing box, proves that even the simplest objects can have clever engineering behind them. Knowing what its hole is for not only satisfies curiosity but also reminds us of the ingenuity of those who designed practical tools that we still use today.