Yup. I made a pincushion.
Sorry I don't know the pattern source. Basically you make a 4" patchwork top and stitch to a corresponding 4" bottom (I used a plain square of fabric.). Turn right-side out and FILL.
And
that is the real motivation behind this post. What to fill it with??? The pattern suggested pecan shells, but where do you get those?? (Not Joann's. . .) I binged "pincushion" and found the suggestions of pencil shavings (?) and sawdust(!), and of course, fiberfill, but that wasn't the 'feel' I was going for. I finally settled on white rice.
Really, though, I'm curious what you use . . . please do tell. More pincushions could be in my future!
I've done a number of pincushion swaps on flick'r and this topic was often discussed. Walnut shells was mentioned, and my LQS even stocked them (and I'm in Australia!) Not good if you have a nut allergy, of course. This thread may help-
ReplyDeletehttp://www.flickr.com/search/groups/?w=1391476%40N25&q=stuffing
I've heard about the pulverized walnut shells, too. I think you can also get them at pet shops (possibly cheaper than a LQS) because they are used as bedding or something for reptiles. Weird, huh? I haven't made a pincushion yet, but I need to!
ReplyDeleteThis post comes right in time... I've got a pincushion waiting for filling and have been asking everyone what do they use for filling! Got so many different answers...
ReplyDeleteI think I will finally settle for rice just like you buy should I encase it in a batting square? (the pincushion is just fabric)... such a little item and so many doubts...
I use the reptile bedding also. It IS ground English walnut shells. Works a treat in the pincushions.
ReplyDeleteI got it online from a pet store site. Pretty cheap.
I've only made one pincushion and stuffed it with polyester stuffing. That was before I got into reading blogs and now would go with the walnut shells for myself. I'm not allergic to nuts though, so if I was making one for someone who was, I'm not really sure what I would stuff it with. The poly stuffing works, but it's not the best solution for me.
ReplyDeleteI love your design. It's like a little wrapped present. :)
I gotta try walnut shells- before i knew about them, I used small beans on the bottom with stuffing (lots of it) on top. Works ok, and would be fine for someone with allergies :) Darling pin cushion!!!
ReplyDeleteI love your pincushion. I make a lot of pincushions, I'll show them off one day soon. If I am sending them in the mail, I use polyfill as it is light and not food so will not get stopped by anyone in post offices, customs, etc. I also bought a bag of those little plastic beads and use those for ones that are staying here or being handed over. We have nut allergies here so are hyper sensitive to that issue. I have not tried rice, maybe next time.
ReplyDeleteI've heard of the shells - they recommend pet shops, apparently they use them in various cages? they come pretty cheap i think as well, i've never personally used them though!
ReplyDeleteThere is a special "stuff" specifically for pin cushions sold in the sewing stuff, but I can't remember what it is called or even the texture. Lately all I hear is crushed walnut shells, but where do you buy that? I used fiberfill and left over batting pieces for mine and added pennies to create weight.
ReplyDeleteThat "stuff" I couldn't remember is called Emery Sand!
ReplyDeleteOoh, love both yours and your pinned ones. I've heard of crushed walnut shells too, but again, where?!
ReplyDeleteI've also heard of crushed glass being used, if you can believe it! Or sterilized quartz sand from a landscape/building supply store. Both of these I read on the Poppyprint Creates blog.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute pincushion, I love the pattern!! I hopped over from the Japanese x and + swap that we are in together. That is going to be a lot of fun and I can't wait to get started! I'm following you now and i cant wait to check out more of your blog. I hope your having a great day!
ReplyDeleteJanuary T
i have heard that crushed walnut shells are the best and you apparently can get them at petsmart.
ReplyDeleteYour pin cushion is adorable!
ReplyDeleteI've heard of using metal shavings or sand. Personally, I use crushed walnut shells I bought at my LQS.
ReplyDeleteI use rice. Whatever kind I have around te kitchen that is getting a little too old to cook. I love your finish.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to read that you used rice. I filled my favorite pincushion with white rice almost 2 years ago and it is fantastic. The pins stay sharp and clean. I love the weighty feel of the rice. Just don't get it wet!!!
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