Hi friends! I had one of those mornings in the sewing room where I sat down to sew, got up to grab a pin, sat back down, realized I needed more pins, got up again, finally brought the whole pincushion over, and – well, you know how it goes. I like to have pincushions everywhere! I want one within arm’s reach at all times in the sewing room.
I’ve been on a bit of a pincushion-making kick lately. There’s just something so charming about them. Maybe it’s the way they bring a little splash of personality to your sewing table, or maybe it’s the nostalgia. I remember my grandma’s tomato pincushion sitting beside her machine, stuffed to the brim with pins and threaded needles, looking like it had seen a thousand quilts come to life.

I will say this: making a pincushion is such a perfect little palate cleanser between big projects. They’re fast, satisfying, and a great way to use those bits of favorite fabric I can’t bear to throw away. And let’s be honest, it’s hard to feel too serious when you’re stuffing a teeny-tiny pillow with crushed walnut shells and giving it a fancy little button in the middle.

Right now, I’ve got a flannel plaid one sitting on my ironing station, a vintage feedsack floral beside my machine, and a Halloween-themed pincushion shaped like a candy corn over on the windowsill. No one needs that many pincushions, I know. But they’re just so joyful.
If you’re feeling a little stuck in your sewing, or just want a quick win, making a pretty little pincushion might be just the thing. They’re small, sweet, and they make the whole sewing room feel a little more put together. And let’s face it: every good pincushion deserves a spot in the spotlight.


I love these two pincushion patterns! I made the one one the left and had her for a year or so before she disappeared at a retreat. She flew the coop. Sadness. I need to make another and I love that the pattern on the right comes with a clip strip. How clever is that!? You can find both of these patterns on Missouri Star Quilt Co. or click here!
So tell me—what’s the weirdest or most wonderful pincushion you’ve ever used? I’d love to hear your stories.
Happy stitching,
Beth
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I also made the Happy Chicks pin cushion. My choice of fabric: purples and lavenders accented with two rhinestone buttons from my MIL’s button box. Just something to remind me of her.