What’s the Purpose of That Tiny Hole in a Safety Pin?

 

You’ve seen it.
Maybe you’ve even held one in your hand without noticing.

That tiny hole at the top of a safety pin — not the big loop where you grip it, but the small second hole, just above the clasp.

It looks like a design detail.
Like something left over from manufacturing.

But here’s the truth:
 It’s not decorative.
It’s functional — and it holds a clever sewing secret that generations of tailors, quilters, and seamstresses have used to work faster, smarter, and with less frustration.

Let’s uncover the real purpose of that mysterious little hole — so you’ll never overlook it again.

Because real ingenuity isn’t always flashy.
Sometimes, it’s hidden in plain sight.

 The Real Purpose of the Tiny Hole
The small hole on a safety pin — often called the “threading eye” or “guide hole” — was designed for one brilliant reason:

 To thread ribbon, elastic, twine, or drawstrings through tight hems or casings — without needing a safety pin extender or bodkin.

Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Hack: Use It as a Mini Bodkin

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Open the safety pin (like normal).
Thread a thin cord, ribbon, or elastic through the tiny hole — not the main clasp.
Close the pin — now the cord is securely attached to the pin.
Pull it through the hem or casing — the smooth metal glides easily.
Unhook the pin when done — no knots, no hassle.
 Think of it as a built-in threading tool — no extra gadgets needed.

 Why This Trick Is a Game-Changer

 No need for a bodkin or safety pin tape
Saves time and tools
 Prevents elastic from twisting
Keeps it straight as it moves through fabric
 Works with narrow ribbons or shoelaces
Even delicate trims won’t slip off
 Great for blind hems, waistbands, sleeves
Perfect for DIY clothing repairs or crafts

 Especially helpful for:

Sewing elastic into pajama pants
Threading cording into hoodies
Attaching pull strings to backpacks or pouches
No more fumbling with tape or losing the end inside the fabric!

 A Forgotten Skill Making a Comeback
Before modern sewing machines and pre-threaded kits, people relied on simple tricks like this to make everyday tasks easier.

Other clever uses of the tiny hole include:

Temporary fabric marker: Tie a piece of contrasting thread through it and clip it to your project for quick reference
Bead organizer: Thread beads onto a string and secure the end with a safety pin to prevent slipping
Craft storage hack: Clip multiple pins together by linking their small holes — keeps them tidy and tangle-free
 These aren’t hacks — they’re wisdom passed down from home sewers who valued efficiency.

 Debunking the Myths
 “It’s just for packaging”
False — some pins come pre-threaded, but the hole has real function
 “Only large safety pins have it”
No — many standard sizes include the second hole
 “It weakens the pin”
Not true — it’s precision-engineered to maintain strength

 Look closely — many brands (like Dritz or Clover) intentionally include it for utility.

Final Thoughts
You don’t need expensive tools to solve common problems.

Sometimes, the best solution has been on your pin cushion all along.

So next time you’re wrestling with a twisted elastic or lost drawstring…
pause.

Pick up a safety pin.
Look at that tiny hole.
And remember:

Real innovation doesn’t always come from new tech.
Sometimes, it comes from noticing what’s already in your hand.

And that kind of wisdom?
It never goes out of style.