Safety pins are one of those simple, everyday items that we often take for granted. They’re small, functional, and we use them without giving much thought to how they work. Most of us know that a safety pin is useful for temporarily fastening things, like holding a torn seam together or keeping a hem in place. But how many of us have noticed the small hole at the top of a safety pin? And how many people know what that hole is actually for?

In fact, research shows that 98% of people don’t know what the hole in a safety pin is used for. It’s a little-known fact, but once you know, you’ll wonder how you missed it all these years. Let’s uncover the mystery behind the small hole and explore why so many people are still in the dark about this clever design feature.

What is the Purpose of the Hole in a Safety Pin?

First, let’s start with the basics. A safety pin, by definition, is a small, spring mechanism that consists of a metal pin with a clasp and a small, sharp point designed for securing fabric or other materials. It’s used in a variety of applications, from fixing ripped clothes to holding items together for craft projects. But what about the small hole that’s located at the top of most safety pins?

The hole was originally designed to serve a very specific function: to help you thread a string, ribbon, or cord through it. This might sound like a simple detail, but it actually serves an important role in making the safety pin more versatile and secure. You might not have noticed it before, but if you closely examine a safety pin, you’ll see that the hole is just big enough to allow a piece of thread or ribbon to pass through. This makes the pin not just a tool for fastening materials together, but also a device for creating a more secure attachment.

The idea behind this design is that you can pass a piece of thread or string through the hole, tie it in place, and use the safety pin for more than just its basic function. This provides an extra level of security and can help keep the pin from shifting, moving, or accidentally opening. It’s especially useful if you’re using the safety pin to attach something that needs more stability or needs to be tied down, like a decorative element or a temporary fastening in a DIY project.

Why Do Most People Miss This Feature?

Despite the usefulness of the hole, most people don’t use it for its intended purpose. In fact, the vast majority of us probably never even think about it. Why is that? There are a few reasons why this small feature goes unnoticed.

1. It’s Small and Subtle: The hole in a safety pin is quite small, and unless you’re looking closely, it’s easy to overlook. Most people just see the pin as a tool for fastening things and don’t think twice about the tiny details that might be included in the design. After all, the main purpose of a safety pin is to hold things together, not to serve as a multi-functional tool.






2. We Use Safety Pins for Simple Tasks: The primary use of a safety pin is simple and straightforward — to temporarily fasten things. Whether it’s a torn piece of clothing, a loose hem, or a patch, safety pins get the job done. People don’t typically need to get creative with them, and thus, they don’t explore all the functions the pin could offer.
3. It’s Not Part of Common Knowledge: Unlike other features of everyday items, the hole in a safety pin isn’t something most people are taught or are told about. Unless you’ve had a reason to use it or had someone point it out to you, there’s a good chance you’ve never even noticed it. It’s just not a widely discussed detail.
4. People Use Safety Pins for Emergency Fixes: Safety pins are often used in emergencies — whether it’s a quick fix for a wardrobe malfunction, or a temporary solution when you don’t have access to a needle and thread. In these situations, people are just focused on using the pin to hold things together, not on investigating all of its features.

The History of the Safety Pin

To fully appreciate the design of a safety pin and its hidden features, it’s important to look at its history. The safety pin was invented in 1849 by American inventor Walter Hunt. Hunt was a prolific inventor and engineer, and the safety pin was one of his many creations. He designed it as a more secure alternative to the traditional straight pin, which could easily come undone or poke through fabric. The safety pin’s spring mechanism, combined with the clasp, made it a safer and more practical option for fastening items.

While Hunt’s invention was revolutionary, he didn’t initially include the small hole at the top. That came later as manufacturers refined the design, adding more practical features for users. The hole was included as a way to improve the pin’s functionality, making it not only a fastening tool but also a versatile accessory for crafts and other uses.

Other Uses for Safety Pins

Though most people use safety pins for simple tasks like fixing clothes, these little tools can be incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways that safety pins — with or without the hole — can be used in your daily life:

1. Temporary Hemming: If you’re in a rush and can’t sew a hem, a safety pin can be a lifesaver. Simply pin the fabric in place and you’ve got a quick, temporary fix until you can get it properly hemmed.
2. Emergency Fixes: When your zipper breaks or you lose a button, a safety pin can step in and hold things together until you can make a permanent repair. It’s a quick and effective solution in times of need.
3. Crafting and DIY Projects: Safety pins are widely used in crafting. They’re commonly used in quilting, jewelry-making, and even creating macramé designs. The tiny hole is perfect for threading string or wire through and securing it in place.
4. Decorative Uses: Safety pins are also used for decorative purposes. From making personalized accessories like bracelets or keychains to creating unique fashion statements on clothing, safety pins add a creative touch to any DIY project.
5. First Aid: In some emergency situations, a safety pin can be used as a makeshift bandage or splint holder. It’s not the ideal solution, but in certain circumstances, it can help temporarily hold gauze or fabric in place.
6. Travel Uses: Safety pins can be used to attach items to a bag or securely close a pouch or wallet. They’re often used to hold tags, travel documents, or anything else that might need to be temporarily secured.

Conclusion

Now that you know about the small hole in a safety pin and its true purpose, you might find yourself using it more often and appreciating its hidden feature. While most people overlook it, this tiny hole adds a layer of versatility and functionality to an otherwise simple tool.

The safety pin has been a staple of households, sewing kits, and emergency fixes for over 150 years. Its longevity is a testament to its practical design, and the small hole at the top is just one more way it proves how thoughtful the design truly is. Next time you pick up a safety pin, take a moment to recognize its full potential — and maybe even impress someone by showing them the hole and explaining its purpose!