How to Use a Magnetic Pin Organizer to Keep Pins Handy
By GE Quilt Designs | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Learn practical steps to use a magnetic pin organizer effectively, avoid common mistakes, and keep your quilting pins within easy reach.
Quick Answer
Place your magnetic pin organizer near your sewing machine or cutting area, arrange pins in the sunburst pattern it creates, and pick them up from the edges for quick, safe access.
Why a Magnetic Pin Organizer Helps
A magnetic pin organizer uses magnets to hold pins securely while repelling them to the outer edges in a sunburst pattern. This design makes pins easier to grab individually, reducing fumbling and accidental pricks.
Keeping pins handy is essential when quilting, as you often need to pin multiple layers of fabric. A dedicated pin holder prevents pins from scattering and keeps your workspace tidy.
Choosing the Right Spot
Place the organizer on a flat, stable surface within arm's reach of where you sew or cut. Avoid areas with high foot traffic or where it could be knocked over.
If you work in multiple spots, consider getting a second organizer so you always have pins within reach without moving your main one.
Steps to Use a Magnetic Pin Organizer
- Place the organizer: Set the magnetic pin organizer on a flat, stable surface near your sewing machine or cutting area, within easy reach of your dominant hand. Check that the surface is level and not cluttered to prevent the organizer from tipping.
- Position pins on the surface: Gently drop or place pins onto the magnetic surface. They will automatically align in a sunburst pattern, pointing outward from the center. Avoid dropping pins from a height, as they may bounce off and scatter.
- Pick up pins from the edges: When you need a pin, grasp it from the outer edge where the pins are spread apart. This reduces the chance of picking up multiple pins or pricking your finger. If you accidentally pick up more than one pin, use your other hand to separate them rather than shaking the organizer.
- Keep the organizer clean: Regularly wipe the surface with a dry cloth to remove lint and fabric fibers that can accumulate and reduce magnetic strength. Check that no pins are stuck to the underside of the organizer, which can happen if you turn it over carelessly.
- Store safely when not in use: When you finish sewing, remove all pins and store the organizer in a drawer or on a shelf where it won't attract metal objects accidentally. Ensure the organizer is not placed near electronic devices or magnetic media, as strong magnets can interfere with them.
Product Facts
- Zirkel Magnetic Pin Organizer Turquoise #ZMOR-TUR: The Zirkel Magnetic Pin Organizer in Turquoise repels items to the outside edges in a sunburst pattern for easier pickup. It is a 4in square made of plastic and metal. The sunburst pattern ensures pins are spread out, so you can grab one at a time without digging through a pile.

Zirkel Magnetic Pin Organizer Turquoise #ZMOR-TUR - Zirkel Magnetic Pin Organizer Lime Green #ZMOR-LMG: The Zirkel Magnetic Pin Organizer in Lime Green also repels items to the outside edges in a sunburst pattern for easier pickup. It is a 4in square made of plastic and metal. Having a second organizer in a different color lets you keep one at your cutting table and one at your sewing machine, so pins are always handy.

Zirkel Magnetic Pin Organizer Lime Green #ZMOR-LMG

