You’ve seen it.

Maybe you’ve even held one in your hand without noticing.

That tiny hole at the top of a safety pin — not the big loop where you grip it, but the small second hole, just above the clasp.

It looks like a design detail. Like something left over from manufacturing.

But here’s the truth: 👉 It’s not decorative. It’s functional — and it holds a clever sewing secret that generations of tailors, quilters, and seamstresses have used to work faster, smarter, and with less frustration.

Let’s uncover the real purpose of that mysterious little hole — so you’ll never overlook it again.

Because real ingenuity isn’t always flashy. Sometimes, it’s hidden in plain sight.

🧷 The Real Purpose of the Tiny Hole

The small hole on a safety pin — often called the "threading eye" or "guide hole" — was designed for one brilliant reason:

✅ To thread ribbon, elastic, twine, or drawstrings through tight hems or casings — without needing a safety pin extender or bodkin.

Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Hack: Use It as a Mini Bodkin

Open the safety pin (like normal).
Thread a thin cord, ribbon, or elastic through the tiny hole — not the main clasp.
Close the pin — now the cord is securely attached to the pin.
Pull it through the hem or casing — the smooth metal glides easily.
Unhook the pin when done — no knots, no hassle.

💡 Think of it as a built-in threading tool — no extra gadgets needed.