Q-Pins Mini-Review
The new Q-Pins I've being trying out over the last few weeks are the most unique push pins I've ever used. Push pins generally terrify me (they're sharp pins meant to be pushed into surfaces!), but David Wagner - the North Carolinian architect and designer behind the product - has managed, in a way, to subvert the very notion behind what a push pin should do.
David's new line of Q-Pins looks like a thumb tack whose frosted plastic head is shaped like a capital 'Q'. The pins work by allowing for papers to be hung on a wall without being pierced; the edge of the plastic head rests adjacent and parallel to the wall when a Q-Pin is pushed in, and leaves just enough room for a paper to be snugly inserted between the wall and head. If the pin isn't pushed in well or eventually becomes loose, it won't work (I noticed this especially when I used old holes in the wall, as they were often too loose for the pin to stay in firmly), but this didn't appear to be a large issue. I liked the colour choices available, too. Q-Pins can be purchased in a variety of colours distributed through one of two packages, 'Stylish Black and White' or 'Contemporary Multicolor'.
It was exhilarating to know that I could finally hang up papers that were important to me without being afraid of permanently piercing them. Likewise, the very way in which I used a push pin began to change as I realized new ways in which the Q-Pins could be used. I started using Q-Pins to temporarily put up small notes and notebook sheets. People around me also started to notice (and pilfer!) pins when they could.
I found the $5 asking price for 24 Q-Pins to be reasonable, particularly when considering that they are custom-made and innovative in a simple, yet effective manner. I was sent two packs, and will consider purchasing more when they run out. The patented design of the pins is intriguing, and it's refreshing to see a product that focuses as much on functionality as it does on style. Q-Pins are the latest addition to my stationery stable, and look to remain there for some time.
