A Prickly Guide to Pincushions: Choosing, Using, and Loving Your Pin-Storing BFF!

Written By Diana Cison
 

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned sewist, you know that pins are a must-have in your sewing kit. But where to keep them all? Enter the trusty pincushion! These tiny wonders are here to keep your pins safe, organized, and right at hand when you need them most. Let’s dive into the world of pincushions—from classic tomato designs to quirky custom shapes—and explore how to find (or even make!) the pincushion that’ll have you sew in love! 🪡

1. Types of Pincushions: More Than Just a Tomato 🍅

Pincushions come in all shapes and sizes, but here are some classic types and a few creative surprises!

  • Classic Tomato Pincushion: This iconic red tomato (with a mini strawberry) is the OG of pincushions! It’s filled with sawdust to keep pins sharp and rust-free. (Bonus: The little strawberry is filled with emery to help polish pins.)

  • Wrist Pincushions: Perfect for sewists who are constantly on the go around their sewing space! Just strap one of these onto your wrist, and your pins move with you.

  • Magnetic Pincushions: Less of a cushion and more of a magnetic tray, these are super handy for quickly grabbing pins—and they’re a dream come true if you ever knock them over. Just sweep the magnet over your pins, and voila!

  • Novelty & Quirky Shapes: From donuts to hedgehogs, pincushions come in every shape imaginable. These are not only functional but also fun additions to your sewing space!

  • DIY Pincushions: Make your own! Whether it’s from an old teacup, a mason jar, or one of our free pincushion sewing patterns (like our Octopus Pincushion 🐙), DIY pincushions let you add your own personal style to your workspace!

Learn how to sew with expert instruction on Craftsy

2. Materials & Stuffing: What’s Inside Matters!

Pincushions can be filled with a variety of materials, and each has its own purpose:

  • Sawdust: A traditional filling that’s great for gripping pins and absorbing moisture, helping to prevent rust.

  • Emery: Often found in the tiny strawberries on classic pincushions, emery sharpens and cleans pins. You can add a bit of emery to your own pincushions for a dual-purpose cushion! Shop emery powder here.

  • Polyester Fiberfill: Lightweight and inexpensive, fiberfill is great for DIY pincushions. It’s soft and works well, though it doesn’t sharpen pins like emery or sawdust. Shop polyester fiberfill here.

  • Rice, Sand, or Crushed Walnut Shells: These natural fillers add a bit of weight and give a nice grip on pins, but they may attract moisture, so keep your pincushion in a dry place! Shop crushed walnut shells here.

3. Pincushion Perks: Why Every Sewist Needs One! ✨

Having a pincushion is not just about convenience. Here’s why pincushions are a must:

  • Safety First: A pincushion keeps pins securely in place, preventing them from scattering around and pricking fingers.

  • Efficiency & Organization: Quickly reach for a pin without digging through a box or bag! (Plus, they’re hard to misplace—especially the bright, quirky ones!)

  • Longer-Lasting Pins: If you use a pincushion with emery or sawdust, it’ll help keep your pins sharp and free of rust, extending their lifespan.

4. Make Your Own Pincushion: A Fun Project for All Levels!

Feeling inspired to make your own? Here’s a quick list of ideas for DIY pincushions:

  • Teacup Pincushion: Use an old teacup, some fabric, and stuffing to create an adorable pincushion that’s equal parts charming and functional.

  • Mason Jar Lid Pincushion: Fill the lid with fabric and stuffing, and use the jar itself to hold your thread, buttons, or other small notions.

  • Octopus Pincushion: 🐙 Our very own free pattern! Give your pins some extra personality with a cute octopus friend. (Perfect for gifting, too!)

5. Tips & Tricks: Pincushion Care and Beyond!

  • Keep it Clean: Wash hands before using your pincushion, especially if it’s a lighter color, to avoid dirt buildup.

  • Add Emery: If you’re crafting your own pincushion, mix in a little emery powder for a built-in pin sharpener!

  • Color Code Your Pins: Use different colors for specific pins (like straight pins, safety pins, etc.) for quick visual sorting.

6. Ready to Buy or Make a Pincushion? 🛒

  • Here’s a link to get started on making your own with our free Octopus Pincushion Pattern!

  • Make sturdy and beautiful sewing accessories, using patterns featured in the Learn to Create Felt Pincushions Book. It has 11 beautiful and useful creations topped with quilt-inspired designs. You'll learn how to create friendship star, flying geese, four leaf clover, diamond star, geometric stars, purple lily, pole star, western star, mariner’s compass, bay leaf, and sun goddess designs.

 
 

Pincushions are small but mighty helpers that add a lot of personality to any sewing station. Whether you buy one or create your own, remember that pincushions are here to make your sewing experience smoother, safer, and way more fun! Happy sewing, and may your pins always be sharp! 🌟

 
Diana Cison
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