Choosing the right materials for your pincushion
The first step in making a pincushion is choosing the right materials. You’ll need some fabric, filling material, and a needle and thread. The fabric you choose should be a sturdy cotton or linen. Avoid slippery or stretchy fabrics, as they won’t hold the pins well. For the filling, you can use polyester fiberfill, wool roving, or even crushed walnut shells. The more filling you use, the sturdier your pincushion will be.
How to sew a basic pincushion
Start by cutting two squares of fabric to the desired size. You can use a 4-inch square for a small pincushion or a 6-inch square for a larger one. Place the two squares right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving a small 1-inch gap for turning. Turn the fabric right side out and stuff with your filling material. You can add a few drops of essential oil to the filling to give your pincushion a pleasant scent. Hand-sew the gap closed and your pincushion is ready to use!
Adding embellishments to your pincushion
If you want to get creative, you can customize your pincushion with embellishments. Try adding a ribbon loop or tassel to make it easier to carry around. You can also sew on buttons, beads, or other decorations to make your pincushion unique. Just make sure any embellishments are securely attached and won’t come loose over time.
Using a jar lid as a base for your pincushion
If you want a pincushion with a sturdy base, try using a jar lid. Cut a circle of fabric slightly larger than the lid and glue it to the top. Then follow the steps for sewing a basic pincushion, but place the jar lid on the bottom before closing it up. This will give your pincushion a flat, stable base that won’t tip over.
Repurposing old items into pincushions
Finally, if you’re feeling eco-friendly, you can repurpose old items into pincushions. An old tea cup or mug can be filled with stuffing and covered in fabric to make a cute and functional pincushion. Or try using an old denim pocket, a piece of driftwood, or even a wine cork as a base for your pincushion. The possibilities are endless when it comes to turning old junk into useful accessories.
