Organizing your workspace, classroom, or home office starts with the simplest of tools: the push pin. While seemingly insignificant, the right thumbtack can make a world of difference in both functionality and style. From securing important notes on a cork board to marking locations on a map, a reliable push pin is a small but essential item for staying on top of your tasks and displays.
With so many options available, selecting the perfect pack can be surprisingly complex. Do you need a massive quantity for a large project, or are you looking for decorative tacks to add a personal touch to your space? This roundup breaks down the best push pins on the market, highlighting their unique features and benefits to help you find the ideal match for your bulletin board needs.
The Best Push Pins for Your Bulletin Board
- 400Pcs Push Pins, Thumb Tacks for Bulletin Board
- IANFAN 600 Pcs Colored Map Push Pins
- GOOACC – GRC-33 240PCS Bumper Retainer Clips
- Charles Leonard Push Pins, Black, 100-Pack
- 40Pcs Wood Push Pins, Thumb Tacks for Decorative
- Charles Leonard Push Pins, Assorted Colors, 100-Pack
- U Brands Sphere Push Pins, Clear Head with Rose Gold
- Pajean 100 Pieces Clear Push Pins Decorative Diamond Tacks
- Staples 480118 Push Pins Assorted Colors 500/Tub
- Mr. Pen Push Pins, 150 Pieces with Assorted Colors
400Pcs Push Pins, Thumb Tacks for Bulletin Board
This bulk set of 400 push pins is an excellent choice for high-volume users in offices, classrooms, or for anyone who never wants to run out. The tacks are built with a sturdy plastic head and a solid steel needle point, a combination designed to resist bending or breaking even with frequent use. You can rely on them for consistent performance over time.
Functionality is a key strength of this product. The sharp tips allow for easy insertion into cork boards and bulletin surfaces, while the grippy head provides a comfortable and secure hold for applying pressure. Organization is also simplified, as the entire collection comes neatly stored in a clear, reusable plastic jar for quick access and tidy storage.
IANFAN 600 Pcs Colored Map Push Pins
For those who need an even larger quantity or are working on detailed map projects, the IANFAN set offers 600 pins. The round heads are made from durable ABS plastic, and the tips are crafted from stainless steel, which helps prevent rust and ensures they can be reused repeatedly without fading or corroding.
These map pins are designed for precision and ease of use. The small, 0.15-inch diameter head is easy to grip, and the 0.6-inch steel tip provides a secure hold in soft boards. The included storage box features a partitioned design, making it simple to keep the pins organized by color and to find exactly what you need without hassle.
GOOACC – GRC-33 240PCS Bumper Retainer Clips
Please note that this product is an automotive parts kit and is not suitable for use on bulletin boards or cork boards. The GOOACC GRC-33 is a 240-piece assortment of bumper retainer clips and plastic rivets designed for vehicle repair and maintenance. It includes 12 popular sizes intended for use on door trim, fenders, and splash shields for various car makes.
This kit is meant to save time and money for DIY auto enthusiasts by providing a wide range of fasteners in one package. The clips are constructed from high-quality, heavy-duty material to resist breaking or cracking during installation and use. A fastener remover tool is also included for removing old clips.
Charles Leonard Push Pins, Black, 100-Pack
Charles Leonard offers a classic and professional push pin with this 100-count pack in solid black. These tacks are precision-crafted for reliability, featuring solid steel heads that provide a sturdy and durable feel. Their simple, timeless design makes them suitable for any formal office environment or academic setting.
The primary benefit of these push pins is their no-fuss functionality. They are perfectly suited for standard cork and bulletin boards, providing a secure hold for documents and notices. The uniform black color presents a clean, organized appearance, making your board look neat and professional.
40Pcs Wood Push Pins, Thumb Tacks for Decorative
Add a touch of natural warmth and style to your space with this set of 40 wooden push pins. Each tack is made from natural wood and paired with a rust-proof stainless steel pin, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functional durability. They are built to resist bending, providing long-lasting use.
These cute tacks are not just about looks; they are highly functional for hanging documents, notes, and decorations on corkboards, foam boards, and maps. The standard 0.39-inch steel pins are easy to insert and remove while holding materials securely. They are a perfect functional gadget for adding character to home, office, or classroom organization.
Charles Leonard Push Pins, Assorted Colors, 100-Pack
This 100-pack from Charles Leonard brings a vibrant and organized system to your bulletin board with its assorted color push pins. The tacks feature solid plastic heads in various colors, mounted on 7/16″ anchored steel pins. This color variety allows for color-coding projects, schedules, or notes for easy visual reference.
The reliable construction ensures these pins can handle daily use. The steel pins offer strength for secure placement, while the plastic heads are durable and easy to grip. This set is a fantastic solution for teachers, students, and professionals who want to combine organization with a pop of color.
U Brands Sphere Push Pins, Clear Head with Rose Gold
For a modern and sophisticated touch, consider the U Brands Sphere Push Pins. This set of 100 features a clear spherical head with a sleek rose gold steel prong, adding a contemporary and elegant look to any office or home space. The design is both minimalist and stylish.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these pins are built for performance. The rose gold steel pin is durable and designed for repeated use, providing long-term operation. They are perfect for adding a subtle pop of style to important messages on bulletin boards, cork boards, and foam boards without overwhelming the display.
Pajean 100 Pieces Clear Push Pins Decorative Diamond Tacks
If you’re looking for decorative tacks that add a bit of sparkle, the Pajean Diamond Tacks are an excellent option. This set includes 100 clear, crystal-like push pins that come in a convenient transparent storage box. Their diamond-shaped head catches the light, creating a subtle decorative effect.
The tacks are made from plastic and stainless steel, making them reliable and resistant to breaking or bending. The large, round crystal head is comfortable to press with your fingers, reducing discomfort during use. They nail tightly into wooden boards and are ideal for enhancing the look of cork boards, posters, and even furniture projects.
Staples 480118 Push Pins Assorted Colors 500/Tub
This Staples product is the ultimate bulk buy, offering a massive 500 push pins in one tub. Designed for maximum value, this pack is ideal for large offices, schools, or community centers where push pins are used frequently and in large quantities. It ensures you are always well-stocked.
The pins come in assorted colors and are made of steel, promising durability for all your hanging needs. This large assortment allows for effortless organization and color-coding on a grand scale. Simply having this tub on hand means you’ll always have a pin ready to help keep your boards organized.
Mr. Pen Push Pins, 150 Pieces with Assorted Colors
The Mr. Pen Push Pins set provides a solid middle ground in terms of quantity, offering 150 pieces in assorted colors. This makes it a great option for those who need more than a standard 100-pack but don’t require the massive bulk of a 400 or 500-count package.
This set is perfect for general office or home use, providing a good variety of colors for organizational purposes. The reliable construction ensures the pins can be used repeatedly to secure notes, posters, and important papers to cork boards and bulletin boards. It’s a practical and cost-effective choice for everyday tasks.
Buying Guide: Picking the Perfect Push Pins for Bulletin Boards
I’ve spent a lot of time organizing bulletin boards, both at home and in an office setting, and I can tell you that not all push pins are created equal. Choosing the right ones can be the difference between a board that looks tidy and professional and one that’s a constant source of frustration. When I look for the best push pins for bulletin boards, I focus on a few key areas that really matter in daily use.
First, let’s talk about the point. This might seem obvious, but a sharp point is non-negotiable. Dull pins require more force to push in, which can bend them, hurt your fingers, and potentially damage your board or the items you’re pinning. I always look for pins made from harder metals that resist bending and stay sharp. The length of the pin is also something I consider; a longer pin is better for thicker stacks of paper or cork boards that are a bit denser.
Next up is the head of the pin. This is where you get to express some style, but it’s also about function. I prefer pins with larger heads because they’re easier to grip and remove. Small, flat heads can be a real pain to get out of a packed board. For my home office, I like clear acrylic pins because they’re less visually distracting, but for a shared space or a classroom, colorful or decorative heads can make the board more engaging. Just make sure the head is securely attached to the pin; there’s nothing worse than it popping off when you’re trying to remove it.
The material of the pin itself is another big one for me. Brass and nickel-plated steel are my go-to choices. They don’t rust and they’re strong enough to handle repeated use. I’ve had cheaper, painted steel pins where the coating chipped off after a few uses, which looks messy and can sometimes stain the board. If you’re using a magnetic board, obviously, you’ll need magnets, but for traditional cork, a good metal pin is the way to go.
Finally, think about storage and quantity. Loose pins in a drawer are a recipe for lost pins and pricked fingers. I always look for sets that come in a reusable container or a plastic box with a lid. Buying in bulk is often more cost-effective, especially if you manage a space that uses a lot of them. By paying attention to the point, head, material, and packaging, you can find a set of push pins that will make organizing your bulletin board a much smoother experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to remove a push pin without damaging the bulletin board?
I’ve found that a gentle, rocking motion works best. Don’t just pull straight out, as this can tear the cork. Instead, grip the head firmly and gently wiggle it from side to side while pulling. For really stubborn pins, you can use a pair of pliers for extra grip, but be careful not to crush the pin’s head if it’s made of a softer material like plastic.
Can push pins be used on walls other than cork?
Generally, no. Push pins are specifically designed for porous surfaces like cork bulletin boards. If you try to use them on drywall, plaster, or wood, you will likely just create a hole and the pin won’t hold securely. For those surfaces, you’re better off with picture-hanging nails or adhesive hooks. Using the right tool for the surface will save you from a lot of unnecessary repair work.
Why do some push pins bend so easily when I try to push them in?
This is usually a sign of lower-quality metal. Thinner, softer metals like some types of cheap steel or aluminum can’t withstand the pressure needed to penetrate a dense cork board. When you’re shopping, look for pins made from hardened steel or brass. They might cost a little more, but they won’t bend and become useless after just a few uses, making them a better long-term investment for your bulletin boards.
Are decorative push pin heads less functional than standard flat heads?
Not necessarily. While a standard flat head is perfectly functional, many decorative heads are designed to be just as easy, if not easier, to grip. Large, rounded plastic or acrylic heads provide a great surface area for your fingers. The main thing to check is that the decorative element is firmly glued or molded onto the metal pin shaft so it doesn’t become loose over time.
How many push pins do I realistically need for a standard-sized bulletin board?
This depends on how densely you plan to cover your board, but I like to have a good supply on hand. For a standard 2′ x 3′ board, a pack of 50 to 100 pins is a comfortable starting point. This gives you enough to secure several documents and posters without running out, and it accounts for the inevitable few that get lost or bent. Having a surplus means you won’t be caught short when you need to put up a new notice.