What technique is often used to temporarily hold fabric layers together before sewing?

Pinning is a widely used technique in sewing that involves inserting pins through the layers of fabric to hold them together temporarily before the fabric is sewn. This method allows for precise alignment and positioning of the fabric pieces, ensuring that they remain in place during the sewing process. It is particularly helpful when working with intricate designs, curved edges, or multiple layers of fabric that need to be kept secure.

Using pins offers several advantages: it minimizes movement of the fabric layers, which can lead to uneven seams and poor finishing, and it allows for easy adjustments. The act of pinning also facilitates accurate sewing, as it helps keep the fabric aligned with the desired seam lines. Other methods of temporarily holding fabric together, such as clipping or tacking, serve different purposes or are used in specific situations. For instance, clipping is more commonly associated with trimming seams or easing fabric, while tacking involves stitching in a way that may be less suitable for delicate or layered work. Therefore, pinning is the most effective and widely accepted method for temporarily holding fabric layers together before sewing.