Make Beautiful Pincushions: 75+ Free Designs For Every Style

Many of us fondly remember our mothers and grandmothers at the kitchen table, doing the week’s mending with a red tomato pincushion dutifully by their side. An adorable strawberry dangled from it, tightly packed with ground emery to sharpen pins and needles whenever they were poked into it.

This tightly packed red tomato was a staple in nearly every sewing basket, so no matter how old you are or what part of the world you live in, chances are you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Nowadays, we have so many options to pick and choose from when shopping at fabric or craft stores. Some may be charming at first glance, but on closer inspection, these little guys aren’t usually as delightful or even as well made as that little vintage tomato.

The good news is that pincushions are not only super easy to craft and sew, but nowadays, we have an amazing amount of design inspiration to work with.

I’ve compiled a lovely collection of pincushions (including free patterns and instructions). I also added a few quick and easy DIY tutorials below. Some are cute, some pretty, and some super charming, but all are useful and do their intended job well.

You’ll also find a few ideas listed for stuffing materials, finishing tips, and assorted ways to personalize the cushions (beads, embroidery, etc.). Lots here, enjoy!

75+ Free Pincushion Patterns & Tutorials

As always here on Tipnut, the tutorials included in this collection have all been hand-picked by me and are 100% hassle-free. This means no fees are charged, no memberships are required, and no email addresses to submit to review the instructions or download any templates (if needed). If that has changed since being added here, please let me know in the comments section below so I can remove it.

Directions: Click on images to visit the project page; a new browser tab will open & save your spot here

Pretty Tart Tin

This charming pincushion serves a practical purpose and adds a touch of vintage flair to your sewing space. The metal tart tin and soft fabric create a delightful contrast, making your sewing experience more enjoyable. Happy crafting!

Supplies Needed:

Small metal tart tin
Fabric (cotton or any material of your choice)
Polyester fiberfill (or your preferred stuffing)
Metal washer (for weighting & stability)
Needle and thread
Scissors
Hot glue gun or strong craft glue
Decorative embellishments (optional: lace, ribbons, buttons)

Directions:

• Prepare the Fabric: Cut a circle from your fabric with a diameter about twice that of the tart tin. For example, if your tin is 3 inches in diameter, cut a 6-inch circle. You can use a plate or a compass to ensure a perfect circle.
• Gather the Fabric: Sew a basting stitch around the edge of the fabric circle, leaving a thread tail at the start and end. Gently pull the thread to gather the material into a pouch (right side facing out).
• Add Stuffing and Weight: Fill the pouch with stuffing until it is plump and firm, adjusting the gathers to distribute the stuffing evenly. Place a metal washer over the stuffing at the opening to add weight.
• Close the Pouch: Pull the thread tightly to close the opening (over the weight), ensuring it is securely gathered. Sew a few extra stitches to keep it closed and prevent stuffing from escaping. Knot the thread and trim any excess.
• Attach to the Tart Tin: Apply a generous amount of hot glue or strong craft glue to the inside bottom of the tart tin. Place the weighted side of the fabric pouch into the tin, pressing down firmly. Hold in place until the glue sets.
• Decorate (Optional): Use hot glue to decorate the edge of the tin with lace, ribbon, or buttons. Add small decorative elements to the top of the pincushion, such as tiny fabric flowers or beads.
  • Tin can also be spray painted in any color you like. Just do this before assembling and make sure the paint is fully dry before making the pincushion.
• Finishing Touches: Ensure the cushion is securely attached and stable. Smooth out any wrinkles or adjust the gathers for an even appearance.

Wrist Pincushions

A wrist pincushion is your new best friend if you’ve ever fumbled for a pin while juggling fabric and thread. This clever tool straps onto your wrist, offering a convenient and accessible spot for your pins and needles. Ideal for beginners and seasoned seamstresses, each of the designs below will ensure you’re always ready to tackle any sewing task easily.

Easy Tufted Square

The tufted buttons create a lovely, finished look that enhances both function and form. Follow this simple guide to make a charming little cushion that provides a practical place to store your pins.

Materials Needed:

Two 6-inch fabric squares
Polyester fiberfill or preferred stuffing
Four buttons
Needle and thread
Sewing machine (optional)
Scissors
Pins
Ruler or measuring tape

Directions:

• Cut two fabric squares, each measuring 6 inches by 6 inches. Ensure they are the same size for a neat finish.
• Place the fabric squares right sides together and pin around the edges, leaving a 2-inch gap on one side for turning and stuffing.
• Sew around the edges with a 1/4-inch seam allowance, leaving the 2-inch gap unsewn.
• Trim the corners to reduce bulk, being careful not to cut into the stitches.
• Turn the fabric right side out through the gap.
• Press the seams flat with an iron to ensure crisp edges and corners.
• Fill the pincushion with fiberfill, using small amounts and distributing evenly to avoid lumps. The pincushion should be firm but soft enough for easy pin insertion.
• Hand stitch the opening closed using a ladder stitch or whip stitch for an invisible finish. Knot the thread securely and trim any excess.
• Mark the positions for the buttons in the center of the pincushion using a ruler. There should be two rows of two buttons each, evenly spaced.
• Thread a needle with strong thread. Starting from the back of the pincushion, sew on each button, pulling the thread tight to create a tufted look. Securely knot the thread at the back after sewing each button.

Tips:

• Ensure the buttons are evenly spaced for a neat appearance.
• Choose buttons that complement the fabric and are proportional to the pincushion’s size.
• This design works beautifully for DIY pattern weights. To give the cushion good weight, simply fill it with heavier materials (such as dried lentils).

Thumb & Ring Pincushions

This pint-sized pincushion is designed to sit comfortably on your finger and offers quick access to your pins while you work. With its snug fit and practical design, it becomes an extension of your hand, seamlessly streamlining your sewing process.

Charming Teacup & Saucer Pincushion

*First published November 27, 2006, and moved to this page for better organization

Forever lost but now found on the web archive: Teacup & Saucer

Supplies Needed:

Teacup & Saucer
3 inch Styrofoam ball
1/4 yard lilac & white cotton gingham fabric
1 yard of 1″ satin wired ribbon
(20) 3″ long steel pins

Directions:

• Cover foam ball with fabric.
• Pin fabric to foam on the underside.
• Generously glue the pinned side of the ball and place it into a teacup.
• Pinch pleated ribbon until it fits around teacup ball. Tuck in ends.
• Dip steel pins into glue and pin ribbon ruffle to ball.
• Dab glue onto pastel buttons and place on the inside of ruffle, covering pins.
• Cut back off remainder of buttons and place as pictured onto the cup, saucer and fabric.

Pincushion Jars

For crafters who value utility and style, mason jar pincushions are indispensable. The cushioned lid securely holds your pins, while the clear jar lets you see its contents at a glance. This creative solution keeps your sewing supplies organized, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing.

Quick Tip: No need to use mason jars if you only have a limited supply, recyle old jelly jars, pickle jars, etc., and they’ll do nicely too!

Easy Felt Shapes

Here’s a perfect DIY option for beginners, offering simplicity and durability in one charming package. Felt’s raw edges don’t need finishing to prevent unraveling, and its sturdy texture ensures it can withstand heavy use. These pincushions combine ease of creation with practical functionality, making them an ideal project for new crafters.

• Cut two pieces of felt in any shape you like—square, rectangle, circle, heart, etc. Use templates or freehand to cut your desired shapes.
• Place the two felt pieces together and stitch around the edges. You can use straight stitches for a simple look or a blanket stitch for a decorative effect. Leave a small opening for stuffing.
• Fill your pincushion with your chosen stuffing material (several suggestions are listed below). Make sure to fill it firmly to provide good support for your pins.
• Stitch the opening shut.
• Use pinking shears or decorative edge scissors to trim the edges of the pincushion for a fun, finished look.

Vintage Shamrock

Whether stitching for St. Patrick’s Day or simply adoring whimsical designs, this pincushion promises both practicality and a dash of Irish flair to your crafting corner.

This can be made in a short time from a few small pieces of felt. The model is red and black with a green shamrock; however, other combinations can be used.

Click on the image to download a larger size pattern piece.

• Cut 2 circles from black felt for top and bottom, the shamrock and the side piece from green.
• Applique the shamrock to top section.
• Sew a red button in center of shamrock.
• Cut a strip of felt 1 x 8 3/4 inches for side, sew one edge of side section to top circle, the other edge to bottom circle.
• Cut a circle of cardboard slightly smaller than the bottom section and place in bottom of cushion, stuff with cotton or kapok.

Source: The Workbasket (1952)

Stuffing Materials That Can Be Used

Whether you prefer the softness of polyester fiberfill, the natural charm of cotton batting, or the eco-friendly durability of ground walnut shells, each of these stuffing materials influences both the functionality and charm of your handmade creations.

• Polyester Fiberfill: Known for its softness and lightweight feel, polyester fiberfill is easy to shape and widely available online and in local stores. It’s ideal for creating plush and malleable cushions.
• Cotton Batting: Made from natural cotton fibers, cotton batting provides a soft and gentle surface for pins and needles. It’s favored for its suitability with delicate fabrics.
• Wool Roving: This durable option contains natural lanolin, which helps prevent pins from rusting. Its resilience and natural properties make it a reliable choice.
• Emery Sand: Also known as ground emery, this fine-grit sand mixed with powdered emery excels at sharpening needles and maintaining their sharpness over time. It’s commonly used in the strawberry part of traditional tomato pincushions.
• Steel Wool: Crafted from fine-grade steel fibers, steel wool, is highly moldable and shapeable. However, it may not be suitable for humid environments as it is prone to rusting over time.
• Ground (or Crushed) Walnut Shells: A popular choice and regarded by many as one of the best materials for pincushions, ground walnut shells are prized for their natural composition. They provide substantial weight and stability, securely holding pins and needles while keeping them sharp over time.
• Sawdust: Made from fine wood particles, sawdust creates a firm and dense filling, adding substantial weight and stability, which is ideal for larger cushions.
• Rice or Lentils (raw): Inexpensive and easily obtainable, they add weight without bulk, making them suitable for smaller, decorative pincushions. They can be blended with other fillings for customized densities.
• Sand: Provides considerable weight and stability and is an ideal material to use if it’s securely enclosed to prevent leakage. Clean play sand, available online, is a popular choice.
• Poly-Pellets: These small plastic beads offer weight and flexibility, allowing for easy customization of cushion shapes and sizes while maintaining firmness. Some options to look for when shopping are “vase filler,” “fishbowl or tank beads,” and “stuffing pellets.”
• Scrap Fabric: A cost-effective option that repurposes those bits and pieces of fabric we have accumulated from past projects.
• Old Stockings or Pantyhose: Easily shaped and ideal for packing nicely and securely, old stockings provide a stable stuffing option.
• Dried Coffee Grounds: When thoroughly dried, dried coffee grounds are surprisingly suitable as a stuffing medium, offering a unique option for eco-conscious crafters.

Handy Stuffing Tools

Each of the tools listed below will make the process of filling homemade pincushions easier and more efficient. By choosing the right tool for the job, you can ensure your projects are evenly filled, beautifully shaped, and ready to be used with pride. Happy crafting!

• Chopsticks: A pair of chopsticks is a surprisingly handy tool for filling tight corners and small spaces. The slender, tapered ends also smooth out lumps, ensuring a consistent and even interior.
• Fork: Designed specifically for distributing filling materials, its pronged end grips the stuffing, making it easy to maneuver into corners and along seams, achieving a firm and even fill.
• Knitting Needles: These long, slender tools are ideal for reaching narrow spaces. Available in various sizes, they help ensure the filling reaches every nook and cranny without tearing the fabric.
• Bamboo Skewers: Their length and thinness make them perfect for reaching tiny corners. Easy to handle and found in most kitchens, bamboo skewers are a convenient and cost-effective option.
• Crochet Hooks: With their curved ends, crochet hooks excel at pulling and distributing filling evenly. They grab and place small amounts precisely where needed, making them a favorite for detailed work.
• Paintbrush Handles: The rounded handles of paintbrushes are gentle on fabric and effective at pushing filling into tight spots. Different thicknesses offer versatility for various parts of your project.
• Pencil Erasers: A pencil’s soft yet firm eraser end is useful for delicate handling, especially in small or detailed areas. The texture grips and pushes the filling without damaging the fabric.
• Plastic Spoons: Using the handle end, plastic spoons push filling into place without snagging or tearing the fabric. Their size makes them suitable for larger projects.
• Foam Brushes: Sturdy and smooth handles of foam brushes are excellent for firm pushing. They allow easy filling without much effort and are inexpensive and widely available.
• Funnel: Essential for granular materials like emery sand or crushed walnut shells, a funnel directs the filling precisely where needed, reducing mess and ensuring even distribution. If you don’t have a suitably sized plastic or stainless steel funnel, it’s easy enough to whip up one with paper (see instructions below).
• Letter Opener: This long, flat, and smooth tool makes pushing filling into corners and edges a breeze. It ensures even distribution without damaging the fabric.
• Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon’s sturdy and smooth handle is ideal for larger projects, providing excellent control and even distribution of the filling material.

Making a paper funnel is quick and easy, and it’s a handy tool for filling pincushions with small materials like emery sand or crushed walnut shells. Use a sheet of printer paper, or try construction paper for something a little sturdier. Here’s how to do it:

Shape the Paper: Hold the paper in one hand and start by curling one corner towards the opposite side, creating a cone shape. Adjust the opening size at the narrow end to fit your needs. The tighter you roll the corner, the smaller the opening will be.

Secure the Funnel: Once you have the desired cone shape, use a piece of tape to secure the edge of the paper where it overlaps. This will keep the funnel from unrolling.

Trim the Tip: If the funnel’s narrow end is too small or uneven, use scissors to trim it to the desired size. Ensure the opening is just right for the filling material you plan to use.

Ready to Use: Your paper funnel is now ready to use. Hold the wide end open and pour your filling material into the narrow end, directing it into your pincushion or container.

This simple paper funnel will do the trick for precise and mess-free filling, and it’s disposable and easily replaceable whenever you need a new one.

Decorative Elements & Tips For Personalizing

Embellishing or decorating your pincushion can turn a simple sewing accessory into a personalized and charming work of art. Here are twelve creative ideas to inspire your pincushion decorations:

• Embroidery: Use colorful embroidery threads to add intricate designs, initials, or small motifs. You can do this freehand or use a pattern for a polished look.
• Buttons: Sew on various buttons in different shapes, sizes, and colors to create a playful, textured surface. Vintage buttons can add a nostalgic touch.
• Beads and Sequins: Incorporate beads and sequins for a bit of sparkle and shine. Create patterns, borders, or random scatterings to add a touch of glamour.
• Lace and Ribbons: Attach lace trim, crochet edging, or ribbon around the edges or across the top. This adds a delicate, feminine touch and can help hide seams.
• Appliqué: Cut out shapes from different fabrics and sew them on. This can be anything from simple geometric shapes to complex designs like flowers or animals.
• Fabric Paint or Markers: Use fabric paint or markers to draw designs, write words, or create colorful patterns. This method allows for a lot of creativity and customization.
• Crochet or Knitted Elements: Add small crocheted or knitted pieces, such as flowers, leaves, or other motifs. These can be sewn on for a cozy, handmade feel.
• Stamps and Stencils: Add patterns or images using fabric ink and stamps or stencils. This is a quick way to achieve a detailed look with minimal effort.
• Charms and Pendants: Attach small charms or pendants with thread or tiny chains. These can reflect your hobbies or interests or add a bit of shine and movement.
• Hand-Stitched Details: Use different hand stitches (like French knots, running stitches, or chain stitches) to create decorative patterns or textures.
• Fabric Yo-Yos: Create small fabric yo-yos and sew them on. These are made by gathering the edges of fabric circles and pulling them tight to form little rosettes.

Tips for Using Scented Fillings

Lavender	Rose Petals	Cinnamon Sticks
Rosemary	Mint	Bay Leaves

• Mix with Regular Stuffing: To maintain the shape and firmness of your pincushion, mix scented herbs (dried) or spices with your regular stuffing material, like polyester fiberfill or wool roving.
• Create Sachets: If you’re worried about the herbs escaping through the fabric, place them in small muslin or cheesecloth sachets before inserting them into your pincushion.
• Refresh the Scent: The scent may fade over time. To refresh it, add a few drops of essential oil that matches your chosen herb to the fabric.

Good To Know: Finishing Tips

• Sew with Small, Tight Stitches: Opt for small, tight stitches to create robust seams that won’t easily come apart. Whether machine-sewing or hand-sewing, ensure each stitch is neat and secure.
• Tidy Seams: Trim away any excess fabric or threads along the seams for a clean and professional finish.
• Secure Knots: Tie off and secure knots thoroughly to prevent them from unraveling. A small dab of fabric glue can add extra security.
• Clip Your Corners: Clip the corners before turning them right side out when making square or rectangular shapes. This allows for sharper, cleaner corners.
• Even Corners: Use a point-turner or the blunt end of a knitting needle to push out the corners, making them well-defined and evenly filled.
• Finish Edges: If using raw-edge techniques, use pinking shears or a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying and give the edges a tidy appearance.
• Embellishment Check: Ensure all embellishments like buttons, beads, and appliqués are firmly attached. Test them with a gentle tug to make sure they won’t come loose.
• Ensure Even Filling: Distribute the filling evenly to maintain a consistent shape without lumps or uneven areas.
• Overstuff Slightly: Fill slightly more than necessary to ensure it stays firm over time. This provides better support for your pins and maintains the shape longer.
• Neat Closures: Close the opening with an invisible or ladder stitch for a seamless finish. Ensure the stitching blends well with the rest of the piece for a polished look.
• Smooth Surface: Gently massage the surface to smooth out any bumps or uneven filling, giving it a refined appearance.