Pin Holder vs. Hairpin Holder: Which Flower Frog Is Right for You?

In the world of sustainable floral design, flower frogs are having a well-deserved renaissance. As eco-conscious florists and hobbyists move away from single-use floral foam, reusable tools like pin holders (kenzan) and hairpin holders offer a beautiful, lasting alternative. 

Since we started Floral Genius in 2017, there has been one question that we've heard over and over again: What is the difference between a pin holder and a hairpin holder? And which one should you use in your floral work?

Let’s dive into a side-by-side comparison of these two floral design staples so you can choose the best tool for your needs.

What Is a Pin Holder (Kenzan)?

The pin holder, also known by its Japanese name kenzan, is a solid base (often made of lead or brass) studded with sharp, vertical brass pins. Stems are pierced directly onto the pins, which hold them upright and secure in a container.

Key Features:

• Provides a very firm grip on thick and woody stems
• Allows the creation of "light and airy" designs
• Excellent for precise control and line-heavy designs (like traditional ikebana)
• Works well in both shallow and deep containers
• Available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, including round, square, and rectangular options

Best for:

• Arrangements that require exact placement and strong stem support
• Florists who work with sturdy, woody, or heavy blooms
• Traditional or minimalist designs that rely on negative space

What Is a Hairpin Holder?

The hairpin flower holder was originally invented by Ida Sinclair in 1936 and offers a more flexible alternative to the traditional pin holder. Instead of sharp pins, it features looped brass “hairpins” that gently cradle flower stems. This design allows for a looser, more natural look, while still providing stability.

Key Features:

• Looped pins offer gentle support without piercing stems
• Easier on soft or hollow stems like tulips, daffodils, or ranunculus
• Encourages more organic, flowing designs
• Less aggressive than sharp pins—great for those new to using frogs
• Also available in a range of round sizes or oval 

Best for:

• Florists who prefer a more relaxed, garden-inspired aesthetic
• Stems that bruise or break easily including dried and silk florals
• Designers getting started with flower frogs (these are a great first step!)

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Pin Holder (Kenzan)	Hairpin Holder
Grip	Strong, firm hold via sharp pins	Gentle cradle via looped pins
Design style	Structured, precise, ikebana-inspired	Loose, flowing, naturalistic
Stem damage risk	Possible with fragile stems	Minimal to none
Learning curve	Moderate to high	Beginner-friendly
Versatility	High, works in many styles	Great for informal arrangements

 

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re designing an ikebana arrangement or working with woody stems like branches, roses, or protea, a pin holder kenzan gives you the strength and control you need. It’s especially suited for arrangements that rely on clean lines and negative space.

On the other hand, if you want a softer, more organic look—or if you’re working with delicate stems—a hairpin holder is a gentle, versatile option that offers more flexibility and ease of use.

Many florists find that having both tools on hand gives them the freedom to adapt their mechanics to each arrangement’s needs. They’re also both reusable and sustainable, making them excellent long-term alternatives to single-use floral foam.

Where to Find Quality Flower Frogs

Well, since you're reading this blog, you probably already know where to get quality flower frogs - from us! :) While there are other brands that offer traditional pin holders, you may find that they have fewer pins that are shorter and spaced pretty far apart. These pin holders don't hold the stems as well and can make using them incredibly frustrating. 

As the only makers of the hairpin holders in the world, finding this style can be a little tricky (except, you're on our site, so you've found them!) You can also find them on Amazon and major retailers like Terrain!

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a pin holder and a hairpin holder comes down to your design style, flower choice, and personal preference. Both offer a sustainable, reusable solution for building stunning, eco-conscious arrangements. Why not try both and discover what suits your style best?