Needle Sharpener

That little bob on the end of those pin cousins of old is a tool.
A dull needle can snag your fabric and become a problem.
When making thick items I use my long shank pins.
They are very, very old.
Every once in a while they will get a build up from steam after being ironed.
Inter into the sand filled bob a few times and it will rub your needles and sharpen the tips .
Sharp needles are like a sharp knife.
They are easier and smoother to use.
The fabrics do not get torn fibers and snags are reduced or done away with.
Keep your tools in good working order.
Keep an eye out to see if you can find a stash from an elder at a yard sale.
If dull spend an afternoon sharpening them.
If they are rusty pass
Stainless steal pins are best.
The new pins are not always what they seam.
You quilters run your needles through too.
It will amaze you haw much smoother the shank will become.

I use three sizes of pins the white glass tops are fine for silks and such.

The yellow tip are for general cottons.

The pearl long shanks are for thick layered projects.

Some day I will invest in a set of ball points for knits and velvets.