T pins are probably the worst pins you could use, IMHO. They are not sharp, and I don't even like the idea of them going through my quilt fabric. When I pinned I used those yellow-headed pins. They're strong and sharp (enough) and they show up when I drop them on the carpet. Now I use Red Snappers. I tried pinning, then Velcro. The problem with Velcro or zippers is that you still have to attach the fabric to the leaders, which means sewing or pinning. Red Snappers solve the whole problem and they come off very easily. I use Red-E-Edge clamps for the sides too, and love them as much as the Snappers.