Here are a few factors to take into consideration when deciding on an appropriate fastener for a Kilt Pin.
The weight of the pin. Obviously a heavier pin will require a stronger fastener. The average store bought pin will weigh in the neighborhood of 4-6 oz.
The material the pin is made from. If you plan to solder the fastener on you will need a pin that can withstand the heat required. 300 deg.f for the softer solders and in excess of 900 deg f. for some silver solders.
If you plan to epoxy your fasteners on the pin should be resistant to the epoxy resin and should not be an oily or fragile coating such as electro-plating that may fail before the epoxy and cause the pin to fall off.
The shape and style of the pin. If the pin has an open design with thin areas you may have to use one style over another just because that style will match the design and give you some place to put the fastener on the back.
Many tie-tack style fasteners have fairly large studs that interfere and show from the front of the pin.
If you plan to attach rare earth magnets to your pin you should be able to carve out the back of the pin so one of the magnets can be imbedded flush so the pin will not be raised out from the kilt apron and prone to catching on things.
Most craft stores such as Michaels will carry inexpensive jewelry findings including "Tie-Tack", single bar safety pin, and double safety pin styles.
Rare Earth magnets can be found at science supply stores. Some place that would carry microscopes. They may also be salvaged from old hard drives.
I would suggest though that your first resource could be to check your phone book and see if there is a rock shop near you. Most rock shops will carry good quality findings. They also carry low temp. silver solders, and I find the people who make jewelry from stones to be passionate about their hobby and more than willing to offer as much help as you can handle.
Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC
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