There are two types of sewing pins. The most commonly used is the straight pin, also know as the hemming pin or basting

pin. The key facets of straight pins that differ and can

help you choose the type you need are length, thickness, and type of head and tip. The metal or finish of the straight pin is

typically brass, steel, nickel, or a combination thereof. The metal used with sewing pins determines whether the pins will

stick to a magnet – a plus for making sure there are none on the floor. Nickel plating is useful for steel pins as it helps

the pin stick to a magnet and prevents it from rusting.