What it is
Wooden and plastic clothespins differ mainly in spring strength and surface. Wooden ones can have rough edges, while plastic ones are easier to clean. People enjoy the steady ache while they are on, the sharp return of sensation on removal and the visual element of rows of pins on the body.
Clothespins are simple spring clips, usually wood or plastic, that can be clipped onto folds of skin to create a pinching sensation. The feeling is often strongest when they go on and again when they come off, as blood flows back into the area. They are inexpensive and widely available, but they still need timing, careful placement and attention to circulation.
What it involves
- Clothespins are clipped onto loose skin, such as the inner thighs, upper arms, sides or chest.
- The pressure creates a pinching ache that often dulls after a short while.
- Removal brings a strong rush of sensation as circulation returns.
- Pins may be counted, arranged in patterns or flicked lightly for added sensation.
How to start
Test a pin on your own skin to feel how strong the spring is.
Begin with one or two pins on fleshy areas for a minute or two.
Grip a generous fold of skin rather than a thin edge, which pinches much more sharply.
Remove pins one at a time and slowly, and expect removal to feel stronger than application.
Going further
- Add more pins gradually and lengthen the time a little, while keeping a close eye on the clock.
- Weaken the spring of some pins by stretching it, so you have a range of strengths to choose from.
- Combine pins with a blindfold or light bondage once the basics feel familiar.
- Explore more sensitive areas only after experience and explicit agreement, using lighter pins there.
Safety
- Keep track of time, as clips left on too long can damage tissue, and start with a few minutes at most.
- Avoid joints, the face, the neck and areas where nerves or veins lie close to the surface.
- Do not place pins on broken, bruised or irritated skin.
- Check wooden pins for splinters and rough edges, and sand or discard them if needed.
- Count the pins before and after a scene so none are forgotten.
Consent
- Agree on body areas, the number of pins and roughly how long they will stay on.
- Discuss whether the bottom wants to be warned before removal or prefers surprise.
- Ask about circulation problems, diabetes or blood thinners, which can change how the skin responds.
- Set a safeword and agree to remove pins immediately when asked.
Warnings
- Skin that turns white, gray or very dark under a pin needs the pin removed right away.
- Bruising and lingering soreness are possible, especially with strong springs or long times.
- Seek medical care if numbness, blistering or discoloration persists after play.
Good to know
- Plastic clothespins can be washed with soap and water and disinfected, while wooden ones are porous and best kept for one person.
- Springs weaken over time, so retire pins that no longer close firmly or that have bent wires.
- Store the pins together in a bag or box, separate from household laundry pins.
- Adjustable nipple clamps or clover clamps offer more controlled pressure for those who enjoy pinching.