Simple Pincushion Tutorial + Free Pattern

Hello, friends! Today I’m sharing a Simple Pincushion Tutorial + Free Pattern. I love this little pincushion because it’s the perfect size to use at home and yet also works well for traveling. It utilizes scraps and small pieces of fabric and can be embellished with buttons, ribbon, or other decorative items. I hope you’ll enjoy the tutorial along with the additional tips and information I’ve included here.

Simple Pincushion Tutorial + Free Pattern

Pincushion Details and Fabric Requirements

The Simple Pincushion finishes at 4″ x 6″ which is a favorite size for a pincushion. It’s large enough to hold several pins and also a good size to travel or use at home. The free PDF pattern I’m sharing today also has two options for the pincushion top. Use strips as shown above or make it even more scrappy using small patchwork. Fabric requirements include:

• Download the PDF here or click on the button below.
• (12) 1 ½″ x 1 ½″ squares or (6) 1 ½″ x 2 ½″ rectangles of assorted prints
• (1) 2 ½″ x 6 ½″ rectangle of a contrast print
• (1) 2 ½″ x 4 ½″ rectangle and (1) 4 ½″ x 4 ½″ square of wool, flannel, or other pincushion backing fabric
• (1) 5 ½″ x 7 ½″ fusible fleece or batting for the front. (Batting may also be used for the back if desired).
• Ribbon or trim as desired
• Crushed walnut shells, sand, or stuffing.

Pincushion Tutorial Video

Watch the tutorial video above or watch on our YouTube channel. In the video I share some a little of my process for sewing (and filling) these simple pincushions.

Tips for Pretty Pincushions

As I mentioned in today’s video, I love using crushed walnut shells for my pincushion filling

• Crushed walnut shells are a terrific pincushion filling. You can buy a small bag to try it out here. And you can find a larger bag if you are going to make several pincushions here.
• Use chopsticks or That Purple Thang tool for stuffing your pincushion.
• A small piece of batting placed over the opening helps keep the filling in while you stitch the opening closed.

More Ideas for Pincushions

• I love the pincushions and pincushion patterns with thread catchers from Curry Bungalow. You can buy pincushions pre-made or purchase patterns to sew.
• Kristyne (@prettybyhand on Instagram) wrote this delightful book with several beautiful pincushions. She also taught me to make the type of back closure for the pincushion in this pattern.

Thanks so much for stopping by for today’s Simple Pincushion Tutorial + Free Pattern. I hope you enjoy making one or a few of these.

Happy quilting!