Instead of pins, there are quilters safety pins, although any safety pins will work. I have used them with a floor frame. I have also used different thimbles to enable me to quilt away from me. There is a hand held thimble thingy that works well to push the needle when quilting away from your body. Also check with churches in your area for hand quilters where you might be able to sit in and pick brains! That's what i did!