How to Choose the Right Pushpins and Magnets for Your Workspace

Quick Answer

To choose the right pushpins and magnets, first consider your surface: use pushpins on corkboards and soft surfaces, and magnets on metal whiteboards and filing cabinets. Assess the weight of what you'll hang, the aesthetic you prefer, and how often you'll rearrange. For a playful touch, look for decorative options that reflect your personality.

Your workspace is more than a desk and a chair—it's a reflection of how you think and work. The small tools you use to pin up ideas, reminders, and inspiration can either streamline your flow or add clutter. Pushpins and magnets might seem like afterthoughts, but choosing the right ones can make your board more functional and your space more enjoyable.

Whether you're organizing a home office, a creative studio, or a corporate cubicle, the right pushpins and magnets keep your notes visible and your surfaces damage-free. This guide breaks down what to consider—surface type, holding power, design, and durability—so you can pick the perfect set for your needs.

Assess Your Surface: Pushpins vs. Magnets

The first decision is whether you need pushpins or magnets. Pushpins are designed for soft surfaces like corkboards, foam boards, and fabric-covered panels. They pierce the surface to hold items in place. Magnets, on the other hand, work only on magnetic surfaces such as metal whiteboards, filing cabinets, and refrigerator doors. They hold items without leaving holes, making them ideal for surfaces you want to keep pristine.

If you have a whiteboard, magnets are the obvious choice. They won't damage the delicate surface, and they allow you to move notes around effortlessly. For a classic corkboard, pushpins offer a secure hold and come in a variety of lengths and styles. Consider the material of your board before you buy—using magnets on a non-magnetic surface or pushpins on a metal board will simply not work.

• Always test your surface with a small magnet before buying a set.
• For mixed surfaces, keep both pushpins and magnets on hand.

Holding Power: How Much Strength Do You Need?

Not all magnets are created equal. The holding strength of a magnet depends on its size, material, and the surface it's attached to. For heavy items like calendars or multiple sheets of paper, you'll need stronger magnets—typically neodymium or ceramic. For light reminders and photos, smaller and less powerful magnets may suffice. Pushpins, similarly, come in different lengths and thicknesses; longer pins provide a more secure hold in thicker boards.

Consider the weight of what you're hanging. A single sheet of paper is light, but a stack of documents or a small pouch can be heavier. If you're pinning up a lot of material, opt for stronger magnets or longer pushpins to avoid items falling. Also, think about how often you'll rearrange: if you frequently swap out notes, magnets are easier to remove and reposition without damaging the paper.

• For heavy items, choose magnets with a higher pull strength or pushpins with longer shafts.
• If you're unsure, buy a mixed pack with varying strengths to test.

Style and Design: Make Your Workspace Yours

Your workspace should inspire you, and the smallest details can make a big difference. Pushpins and magnets come in a rainbow of colors, shapes, and themes—from classic metallic to playful animals, fruits, or even miniature objects. Choosing a design that resonates with you can add a touch of personality to an otherwise mundane board.

For example, if you love nature, you might choose leaf-shaped pushpins or floral magnets. If you're a fan of quirky humor, there are options like miniature hot dogs or skulls. The key is to select something that makes you smile every time you look at your board. After all, you'll be interacting with these items daily.

• Match your pushpins or magnets to your office decor or personal style.
• Consider the size: larger decorative pieces may obstruct your view of the notes.

Durability and Quality: What to Look For

Cheap pushpins can bend or break, and weak magnets can lose their grip over time. When buying, check the material: stainless steel pins resist rust, and neodymium magnets are strong but may be brittle if dropped. Look for magnets with a protective coating to prevent scratches on your board. For pushpins, a comfortable grip is important if you'll be using them frequently.

Quality also affects how they look. High-quality finishes won't fade or chip, keeping your board looking neat. While it might be tempting to buy the cheapest pack, investing a little more in durable pushpins and magnets can save you the hassle of replacing them often.

• Read reviews to gauge durability and strength.
• Avoid magnets that are too strong for thin boards—they may pull the surface.

Decision Rules for Choosing Pushpins and Magnets

• Surface Type: Identify whether your board is soft (cork, fabric) or magnetic (metal). Use pushpins for soft surfaces and magnets for magnetic ones. Match the tool to the surface to avoid damage and ensure hold.
• Weight of Items: Estimate the total weight of what you'll hang. For light items, standard pushpins or small magnets work; for heavier items, choose longer pins or stronger magnets. Choose strength based on what you'll attach.
• Frequency of Changes: If you rearrange often, magnets are easier to move and reposition without tearing paper. Pushpins leave holes but are fine for permanent setups. Magnets for dynamic, pushpins for static.
• Aesthetic Preference: Select pushpins or magnets that reflect your style—whether minimalist, colorful, or whimsical. Decorative options can enhance your workspace. Choose designs that make you happy.

Product Facts: Fun and Functional Options

• SPROUT: The little green bookmark. Now you can pick up right where you left off with Sprout bookmarks. Sow them where you need to stop - when you get back, the leaves will be rooted to the page exactly where you left them. With six individual Sprouts - in three shades of green - we think they make an abundant crop! While not a pushpin or magnet, Sprout bookmarks offer a whimsical way to mark your place in documents or books, adding a touch of nature to your workspace without damaging surfaces.
• WOODLAND SPROUTS: Fern-ish your books with nature’s charm. For those frond of reading, Fred’s Woodland Sprouts bring natural charm to every chapter. These adorable fern bookmarks sprout gracefully from your book to keep your place as you leaf through the pages. Comes in a set of two. Made of soft, flexible silicone. If you prefer not to use pushpins or magnets on your documents, these soft silicone bookmarks are a safe, reusable alternative that adds a natural aesthetic to your reading materials.

Who Should Choose What

Best for

• People with metal whiteboards or filing cabinets who want a clean, hole-free way to post notes.
• Those who enjoy adding a personal, decorative touch to their workspace with themed pushpins or magnets.

Not for

• If you have a corkboard and need to pin heavy items, pushpins may not provide enough support; consider using a combination of pushpins and adhesive hooks.
• If you prefer a minimalist, professional look, overly decorative pushpins or magnets might not suit your taste.

Choosing the right pushpins and magnets for your workspace comes down to understanding your surface, the weight of your items, and your personal style. By following these decision rules, you'll create a functional and inviting space. For a touch of whimsy, explore Fred's collection of playful office accessories, like the SPROUT bookmarks, to add a little fun to your desk.