Push Pins Explained: Answers to 10 Common Questions

The modest push pin: what could be simpler? And yet, like many of the simplest inventions, it’s a very ingenious and multifaceted little thing.

Not only that - they raise plenty of practical questions; and hence this guide, where we’ll answer 10 of the most common questions about push pins, from what they are made of to whether you can take them with you on a plane.

1. What are push pins and what are they used for?

Push pins are also known as thumb tacks; they are short pins with a flat or rounded head designed to be pressed into soft surfaces by hand. 

What are push pins made of?

Most push pins consist of:

• A sharp metal needle
• A plastic, wood or metallic head

What are push pins used for?

Push pins are typically used to:

• Attach paper to cork notice boards
• Display photos or notes
• Pin lightweight decorations
• Mark locations on maps
• Secure fabric or thin materials temporarily

Because they are small and easy to remove, they’re useful anytime you want to fasten something, but only temporarily.

How do push pins work?

Pretty simply: by penetrating soft surfaces - like cork, foam board, drywall, or soft wood - and holding in place. They’re not designed for hard materials like concrete or brick.

2. Can push pins be used on walls and do they cause damage?

They can, though it does depend on the wall material.

Can you put push pins in drywall?

In a lot of homes, walls are made of drywall or plasterboard, which push pins can penetrate easily, especially if there are no studs behind the area.

However, they are not suitable for:

• Concrete walls
• Brick
• Tile

Do push pins damage walls?

Push pins do create, of course, very small holes. In most cases, the damage is minimal and barely visible. That said, repeated use in the same area can leave noticeable marks.

If you are renting, you may want to know whether they’re allowed. In many cases, landlords consider push pin holes minor damage, but policies vary; you should check your lease agreement.

Is it safe to put push pins in the wall?

Yes, provided:

• You avoid electrical wiring and plumbing areas
• You do not overload them with excessive weight

Which brings us to the next question.

How much weight can push pins hold?

Push pins are made for lightweight items such as:

• Photos
• Notes
• Small posters

They are not suitable for heavy frames or mirrors.

3. Can I use push pins to hang pictures and canvas?

For sure: people do it all the time, with lightweight prints, posters and unframed photos. They are great for temporary displays, student rooms and creative walls.

But stick to light stuff; push pins are not recommended for:

• Heavy framed artwork
• Glass frames
• Large canvases with wooden stretcher bars

Can you use push pins on canvas?

Sure: push pins can be used to secure canvas to a wall, as well as to hold fabric or craft canvas in place during projects.

When using push pins for artwork:

• Space them evenly
• Avoid placing them too close to the edge
• Check that the wall can support them

And again, push pins are best suited for decorative and low-weight applications, rather than permanent installations.

4. How to remove push pins safely and easily

Doing so should be very simple and easy, but taking some care to do it properly helps prevent damage to the wall.

How to remove push pins

1. Grip the head firmly with your fingers.

2. Pull straight out rather than at an angle.

3. Avoid twisting excessively.

If the pin is difficult to remove, these will usually take care of the issue:

• A flat tool such as a butter knife
• Pliers for metal push pins

How to remove push pins without a tool

Or, if you do not have tools available:

• Use your fingernails - carefully - under the head
• Pull gently and steadily

Avoid forcing the pin, as this may enlarge the hole in the wall.

How to prevent push pins from jabbing you

These are very obvious precautions, but it’s worth taking a moment to remind them:

• Store the push pins in a container
• Keep them away from children
• Avoid leaving them loose in drawers

5. Can I take push pins on a plane?

This is a surprisingly common question.

In fact, push pins are sharp objects, which means they may be subject to airline security rules.

In general:

• Small office supplies are often permitted in checked luggage
• Carry-on approval may vary depending on airport security regulations

Because aviation security policies change and differ by country, it is best to:

• Check your airline’s official guidelines
• Review airport security regulations before travelling

If you are unsure, pack push pins in checked baggage to avoid issues at security checkpoints.

Conclusion

Push pins may seem trivial, but we’ll miss them if we can’t find one at the right moment - they come in handy in many situations, from displaying artwork to organising notes and marking locations.

To recap:

• Push pins are simple fastening tools made from metal and plastic
• They can go into drywall but create small holes
• They are suitable for lightweight pictures and canvas
• They are easy to remove when handled carefully
• Airline rules vary, so always check before flying

Portuguese Treasures offer a wide range of push pins - from classic and heavy duty options to decorative and novelty designs - ensuring the perfect combination of functionality, durability, and style for your home, office, or creative space.