Plastic tag pins are one of the most common ways to attach hang tags in garment factories: once a T-shirt comes off the line, an operator fixes the hang tag, price ticket or even the care label with a tagging gun in seconds. Fasteners are cheap, quick and secure — the mainstream choice for fast fashion and bulk orders — yet the wrong pin length, hole size or material leads to dropped tags, snagged fabric and complaints.
This guide to plastic hang tag fasteners explains the types and sizes of tag pins, how the tagging gun and hole punching work together, and when to choose string instead — so you can order with confidence.
1. Where Plastic Tag Pins Fit Best
Tag pins are all about speed: they suit garment categories that are tagged on a production line in high volume. The pin goes straight through the fabric or the weave — no hand-tying as with string — and the efficiency gap grows with order size.
- Knits and wovens: the tag is fixed inside the neckline or at a side seam — discreet and comfortable
- Multi-tagging: one garment carries a hang tag, price ticket and care label at once, or several pieces are stacked
- Export and logistics: a firm hold that survives handling, warehousing and transport
2. Common Types of Tag Pins
| Type | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| T-pin (short) | Barbed shaft, locks in one insertion | Standard tag + single garment |
| T-pin (long) | Longer shaft for thick fabrics or stacked pieces | Denim, outerwear, bulk stacking |
| Loop fastener | Closed loop end, can also pass a care label hole | Tag + care label / price ticket combos |
| Special heads | Different end shapes, different holding power | Made to buyer specification |
Pin length follows no universal standard: estimate it as tag length + fabric thickness + allowance, and rather go longer than shorter — always confirm with the supplier's physical sample.
3. Four Keys: Holes & the Tagging Gun
- Match hole to pin: the hole should be slightly larger than the pin — smooth to insert yet snug; ask the supplier for a hole/pin recommendation on the sample
- Keep holes off the edge: leave at least 6 mm from the hole centre to the tag edge, more on low-strength papers such as cotton stock, to avoid tearing
- Thick and laminated papers: above 400 gsm or under film the hole edge is stiffer — check it does not scratch or snag the fabric
- Custom shapes and pre-punching: die-cutting can punch the hole at the same time — more accurate position, cleaner edge
4. Eco Pressure & Alternatives
PP pins are single-use plastic, and European buyers plus sustainable brands are increasingly cautious about them; online shoppers are also more sensitive to needless plastic in the unboxing experience.
- Biodegradable compounds: some suppliers offer bio-based or biodegradable pins — judge them by certification and real testing
- Paper twine and cotton string: the usual choice for retail, gift boxes and eco-positioned brands — and easier to recycle
- Reusable fasteners: for showroom samples or store use, switch to magnetic clips or reusable snaps
Dongguan TAGE Packaging specializes in hang tags, woven labels, care labels and garment packaging, with pre-punching, die-cut holes and full trim coordination. Want the right pin set-up first time? Send us your fabric and tag sample — our engineers will recommend the pin type and hole spec.
Need the right tag pin set-up, or samples to test the hold? Send us your fabric and tag — get a tailored recommendation and quote.
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