How to quilt Getting Started How to Pin Fabric Pinning your fabric will save you time and ensure smooth sewing! See how to pin your projects. By American Patchwork & Quilting Editors American Patchwork & Quilting Editors American Patchwork & Quilting® magazine and AllPeopleQuilt.com have been the go-to resource for quilters to learn a new skill or simply sew something that brings pride and accomplishment. Our staff has over 70 years of quilting experience, and works with skilled editors, copy editors, quilt testers, and technical editors to ensure each pattern and article is accurate and up-to-date. We're passionate about quilting, and know that it's not just a hobby — it's a lifestyle. We strive to connect with other quilters and provide content that inspires them in their sewing space. American Patchwork & Quilting's Editorial Guidelines Published on March 9, 2018 1. Place your fabrics with right sides together. 2. Using ball head pins, weave each pin in and out of layered fabrics. Make sure pin point faces in toward fabric center and pin head extends over fabric edges. Place pins perpendicular -- or sideways -- to the edge that will be stitched. 3. Begin stitching fabrics together, removing each pin just before the needle reaches it. Ball head pins are easy to pull out. Don't be tempted to sew over pins. You can bend or break the machine needle and damage your machine. Pinning perpendicular in this way ensures smooth seams inside....and out. See how to pin your project in this video. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit