Fork Pins
with instructor Steve Butler
Class 134
When we think about it, the pursuit of our creative sewing aspirations always seem to follow the same basic path regardless of genre. Quilting, fashion, home decor, heirloom or crafts. In each we cut large pieces of fabric into smaller pieces of fabric, reorganize them in some imagined design and then sew them back together into larger pieces of fabric. In that process we measure, mark, cut, pin and then sew. The more precise each step is, the more satisfaction we enjoy with our finished project. In that regard, the importance of our ability securely hold our fabric pieces together prior to sewing takes on added significance. We often use straight pins to hold patterns in place, bind fabric pieces, hold seams together, anchor trims, beads or other embellishments in place and even block knitted products. There are many styles of pins available to satisfy the specific demands of these applications. For each of them there is a “best” straight pin design that will give us the best results. But if you have a requirement for absolute secure holding power and stability (precision piecing for quilters) there is a superstar, Clover’s Fork Pin.
What does it do? – Unique among all other straight pins is Clover’s Fork Pin and Fork Blocking Pin. Both have two shafts connected by a U-shaped, turned-up end. The final effect is that of two very fine straight pins connected at one end effectively stabilizing both shafts as they stabilize our fabric. The turned-up connector even allows you to pin fabrics without lifting them. They’re perfect for securing hard to handle or slippery lining materials for fashion. They are great for positioning stripe or plaid fabric pattern alignment prior to sewing in place. Fork pins are ideal for holding fashion components like pockets or various style embellishments in place prior to sewing. They’ve also found a new home in creative contemporary quilting where matching unique shapes is required. Blocking knitted garments? Fork Blocking Pins are the “go to” tools. Clover Fork Pins are available in both 35 and 70 piece offerings.
How do I share it? – Any sewn project that requires a little extra stability to ensure precise stitching can be improved using Clover’s Fork Pins. Quilting, home decor, fashion, heirloom or crafts. Make a storyboard demonstrating applications for each genre. Your friends will see the applications that pertain to their own specific interests. Open a pack at the cutting table and let them see how easy they are to insert and remove and how stable the junction is and you’ll have fans for life.
