I bought a box of 50 and use all of them - I stick them on, sew to the end and then repeat - they do go a long way. I think you could work your way around with just 2 though. I suppose clothespins would work; however, what REALLY impresses me about these are how they are the exact right size and shape for holding down that binding. They are also not nearly as big as clothespins so probably easier to handle. I got them on sale and I think this is one thing that was well worth the money! I have lots of quilt gadgets in drawers that I'll probably never use. This is one purchase I would repeat!