How to Use XL Sewing Clips for Quilting and Sewing
By Madam Sew | Sewing Supplies & Tools Online – MadamSew | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use XL sewing clips to hold multiple fabric layers, replace pins, and speed up your quilting and sewing projects with these simple steps.
Quick Answer
Use XL sewing clips to hold multiple layers of fabric together without piercing them, making them ideal for quilting, thick seams, and any project where pins get in the way.
Why Choose XL Sewing Clips Over Pins
Traditional pins can shift or distort fabric, especially when working with multiple layers or slippery materials. XL sewing clips grip the fabric firmly from the edge, holding layers in place without leaving holes or causing puckering.
Because they clip from the outside, they are also safer for kids and easier to reposition. The trade-off is that clips can add bulk near the seam line, so you need to position them carefully to avoid sewing over them.
When to Use XL Clips vs. Regular Clips
Regular clips work fine for lightweight fabrics and simple seams. XL clips are better when you need extra holding power, such as when quilting with batting, sewing thick fleece, or joining multiple layers.
The larger size also makes them easier to grab and remove, which can speed up your workflow on big projects like quilt basting or bag making.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using XL Sewing Clips
- Prepare Your Fabric Layers: Align the fabric layers you want to hold together, making sure edges are even. Smooth out wrinkles or folds before clipping. If layers shift while clipping, start over rather than forcing the clip over misaligned edges.
- Position the Clips Along the Seam: Place clips every 3–4 inches along the seam allowance, perpendicular to the fabric edge. This keeps layers aligned without interfering with the presser foot. Avoid placing clips directly on the seam line; clip along the edge so you can sew without stopping to remove them.
- Sew the Seam: Sew slowly, removing each clip just before it reaches the needle. Keep the clip away from the presser foot to prevent damage. If you accidentally sew over a clip, stop immediately and gently remove it to avoid breaking the needle.
- Remove Clips and Press the Seam: After sewing, remove all clips and press the seam open or to one side. The clips leave no holes, so the fabric remains clean. Store clips in a nearby container so you can reuse them quickly for the next section.
Product Spotlight
- XL Sewing Clips - 2 ¼ x ½ inch - multicolor - 25 pcs/box: These XL sewing clips are 2 ¼" long by ½" wide and open up to ¾ inch, allowing them to hold many layers of fabric. The wide opening means you can clip through thick quilt sandwiches or heavy fabrics without struggling to get a secure grip.
XL Sewing Clips - 2 ¼ x ½ inch - multicolor - 25 pcs/box
