Clip It Good! Your Guide to Sewing Clips ✂️✨
If you’re new to sewing or simply looking to make your sewing life easier, let’s talk about an underrated little tool: sewing clips! These colorful, handy helpers are the secret to neat and stress-free stitching. They’re especially fabulous if you're sewing thick fabrics, vinyl, leather, or anything that doesn’t want a pinhole. Grab your favorite beverage, and let’s dive into why sewing clips deserve a place in your sewing kit!
Why Use Sewing Clips?
🔹 No Holes Here: Unlike pins, clips don’t pierce or damage fabric. This makes them perfect for delicate or difficult-to-pin materials like leather, vinyl, or thick quilts. Plus, no pinholes mean you don’t have to worry about leaving a trace.
🔹 Easier on Your Hands: With sewing clips, there’s no pricking your fingers mid-project (we’ve all been there 🩹). They snap right onto your fabric without fuss—no more stopping to adjust!
🔹 Thick Fabric? No Problem!: Pins can struggle to hold thick layers, like quilts, fleece, or heavy canvas. Sewing clips? They’ve got it handled, keeping everything in place even when the fabric is thick as a sandwich.
🔹 Fast, Convenient, and Colorful!: Clips are faster to attach than pins, and most come in bright colors so you can spot them easily. Plus, they’re so cute on your workspace! 🌈
Types of Sewing Clips to Try
Sewing clips come in different shapes and sizes—each with its unique purpose. Here’s a quick rundown:
Standard Plastic Sewing Clips: These are the most common ones you’ll see, usually in red, pink, and yellow colors. Their grip is perfect for most fabrics and project sizes.
Extra-Strong Clips: Need more grip? Look for extra-strong clips designed for heavy-duty work with thick materials.
Mini Clips: Ideal for smaller, more detailed projects. Mini clips let you work in tighter spaces, like around curves or corners.
Metal Clips with Silicone Tips: These are designed to hold slippery or delicate materials without damaging them. The silicone tip gives a soft yet secure hold.
How to Use Sewing Clips Like a Pro 🪡✨
Using sewing clips is simple, but here are some tips to make the most of them:
Clip at Regular Intervals: Place clips every few inches to keep everything even, just as you would with pins.
Watch Out for Bulk at Seams: For thick seams, try clipping one side of the seam allowance first, then fold and clip the other. This keeps layers aligned without too much bulk.
Use on Curves and Edges: Clips are perfect for securing curved edges that pins might distort. Arrange them slightly closer together for tricky curves to hold fabric firmly in place.
Choose Clip Size Based on Your Project: For smaller, more detailed sections, stick with mini clips. For thick fabric and bulkier areas, reach for your heavy-duty clips!
Caring for Your Clips
Good clips will last a long time, but they can lose their grip if not cared for. Keep them free of dust, avoid leaving them in extreme heat (the plastic can warp), and clean occasionally to keep that colorful shine.
Where to Get Quality Clips 🛒🧵
Whether you need a set of basic clips or some specialty ones, here are a few options from my favorite affiliate shops:
Basic Plastic Clips Set - A reliable set of standard clips, perfect for beginners and experienced sewers alike.
Heavy-Duty Clips for Thick Fabrics - Essential if you’re into quilting or sewing with thicker materials.
Mini Clips - Ideal for detail work and smaller projects.
Sewing Clips vs. Pins: When to Use Each
Pins will always have their place, but sewing clips are the go-to for fabrics that are thick, delicate, or hard to pin. They also help if you’re working on the go, as clips can stay in place until you’re ready to sew without needing extra fuss.
Sewing clips might be tiny, but they pack a big punch when it comes to convenience and versatility. Whether you’re quilting, working with slippery fabrics, or just want to avoid those pinhole marks, sewing clips are a game-changer. So, clip away, and make sewing smoother, safer, and more colorful!
Ready to start clipping your way to cleaner seams and happier sewing?