I have a big problem. I like the ball point, nickel plated steel, size 1 1/16" straight pins; but I bend them almost on the first use. Does anyone know where I can purchase the straight pins that clothing manufacturers use? It's the ones that are used to pin folded shirts. Those are the right size and I don't bend them and they even have a small round head.

i would do a search for garment sewing supplies. Perhaps ask a tailor shop or drycleaners that purchases such supplies. There was a time that I bought the 1" pins for basting at the local drycleaners.

Thanks! That's a good idea!

I buy a lot of supplies from Atlanta Thread and Supply. Here's a link to their site : http://store.atlantathread.com/
They have good prices and I've never had any problems with my orders. They should have just what you need. There's a link on the left side of their home page that will take you to "pins". Enjoy...

You guys give the best information. This is the best place!Good luck on your search.

I love the clover extra thin patchwork pins. You can sew over them with no problems. They are the ones with small yellow/purple heads. Course I use them for quilting and am not sure if they are what you're looking for.

http://store.atlantathread.com/sufiirpi.html

They are super sharp, thin and very strong. A professional sewer that use to sew for runway designers in NYC told me about these pins.

[url]http://www.steinlaufandstoller.com/Straight%20Pins.htm[url]