Scrappy Pincushions: Creative Ways to Use Up Fabric Scraps
If you’re a quilter or sewist, you probably have an overflowing bin of fabric scraps—too small for a quilt but too pretty to toss. One of the best ways to use up those leftovers is by making pincushions! Not only are they quick and satisfying to sew, but they also offer endless opportunities for creativity.
In this post, we’ll explore different styles of scrappy pincushions and how you can turn leftover bits into charming and functional sewing room accessories.
1. Cathedral Window Pincushions
Cathedral window pincushions add a touch of elegance to your sewing space while putting scraps to good use. These pincushions allow you to showcase beautiful fabric combinations, playing with color and texture in a striking way. The folded fabric technique creates dimension and structure, making each pincushion feel like a tiny quilted masterpiece. Whether you go for traditional contrast or a modern twist, a cathedral window pincushion is a great way to experiment with scraps.
Each cathedral window pincushion uses 3 squares 5" x 5" (plus the fabric which forms the framing) so these are a great way of using up those leftover charm pack fabrics.
You can learn to make your own cathedral window pincushions with my
Cathedral Window Pincushion pattern (on sale right now for $9.45).
2. Scrappy Pincushions to Highlight a Focal Print
Sometimes, you come across a fabric scrap that’s just too beautiful to cut up any further or a print that has the perfect fussy cutting design. A pincushion is the perfect way to give a treasured print the spotlight it deserves while still incorporating scrappy elements. Try surrounding your focal print with patchwork borders, framing it with complementary colors, or using simple piecing techniques to create contrast. This approach works especially well with fussy-cut motifs like florals, animals, or geometric designs.
Below are some of my favorite pincushions I made with some special fabrics I wanted to highlight. The bucks with glasses is one of my most favorite prints ever. They just need a little frame of a solid to frame the print. Other pincushions with one focal fabric are some Dr. Seuss fabrics left over from my very first
The Quilt in the Hat quilt and a favorite print from Carolyn Friedlander.
I usually add some top stitched quilting lines to hold the layers together and add interest.
3. Scrappy Pincushions Using Tiny Fabric Bits
Do you have a collection of tiny fabric trimmings, leftover half-square triangles, or pieced blocks from previous projects? Instead of tossing them, turn them into a scrappy pincushion! This type of pincushion is all about playing with color and texture, using even the smallest scraps to create something unique. You can sew them together in a random improv style or arrange them into stripes. I often pair the bits of fabric with either a solid, some linen, or a stripe (I use stripe fabric for bindings often so I have plenty of 2 1/2" strips leftover.
In the Echino pincushion below I used the selvedge edge for a little fringe in the pincushion.
Bonus: Matching Accessories for a Coordinated Sewing Set
Why stop at just a pincushion? Scraps can also be used to make matching accessories like needle books, scissor fobs, and tiny fabric baskets to create a complete sewing set. Coordinating a set from the same fabric scraps ties everything together and makes your sewing space feel even more personalized. These small projects also make wonderful gifts for fellow quilters and sewing enthusiasts.
I actually used to sell these a decade ago on Etsy. I loved picking out the colors and fabrics for a coordinated by scrappy set.
Stuffing & Finishing Tips
To make your pincushions functional and long-lasting, consider these tips:
Use the right stuffing – Polyfill works well, but crushed walnut shells add weight and help keep pins sharp. You can find them in pet stores as reptile bedding! I like to overstuff my pincushions so they are really nice and firm.
Get Inspired and Start Sewing!
Scrappy pincushions are a fun and rewarding way to use up fabric leftovers while adding charm and functionality to your sewing space. Whether you choose a cathedral window design, highlight a favorite print, or make use of tiny trimmings, there are endless ways to get creative. Plus, with matching accessories, you can take your scrap-busting projects to the next level!
Which pincushion idea excites you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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