Creating a cute pin cushion is a fun and easy craft anyone can enjoy! Our step-by-step sewing tutorial allows beginners or pros to make one in under 30 minutes.

Pin cushions are a handy sewing tool that keeps your pins organised and look lovely.

Choose the fabrics, prints, or colours you love the most to make this project your own! I used one of my favourite floral prints and a pink stripe to create my patchwork pin cushion, and I love how it turned out.

So, let’s jump into this beginner-friendly pin cushion sewing tutorial.

If you are new to sewing, here are some helpful sewing articles to help you get started:

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Why You Will Love This Pin Cushion

Easy and quick to sew in less than 30 minutes.
Beginner-friendly project.
A useful way to use fabric scraps.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Cotton or linen fabric – small scraps
Stuffing material (polyfill or fabric scraps)
Thread
Sewing machine
Fabric shears
Pins

How to Sew a Pin Cushion

Step 1: Cut out the patchwork pieces

Start by cutting out a template from cardstock into a small square 6x6cm (2×2 inches) and use it to cut out the fabric. Cut out four squares.

Step 2: Sew the patchwork together

Next, pin two squares with their right sides together and sew a 5mm (1/4 inch) seam. Repeat this step for the other two squares and press the seams open.

Then, pin the pairs of patchwork squares with their right sides facing each other, matching up the seam allowances. Sew a 5mm (1/4 inch) seam and press it open.

Patchwork squares being pinned together as pairs

Step 3: Cut out the bottom piece

Cut out the bottom piece using the top of the pincushion as a template. Alternatively, repeat the patchwork steps above to make another piece for the bottom.

Step 4: Finish sewing the pin cushion

Sew around the pincushion with a 1cm (1/2 inch) seam allowance, leaving a small opening in the seam to put in the stuffing. Trim off the corners and turn the pincushion to the right side.

Stuff the scraps inside the small opening until the pincushion is compact so that the pins won’t come through the bottom side.

Stuffed pin cushion before sewing up the hole

Finally, close the opening with an edge stitch or hand stitch.

Project Tips

Mix and match fabrics – get creative with your fabric choices! Try using different fabrics for the top and bottom of the pin cushion, or consider adding a decorative trim to give it an extra pop.
Add a felt base – for greater durability, attach a felt base to the bottom of your pincushion to prevent it from sliding around.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use scrap fabric for this project?

Certainly! Pin cushions make excellent use of fabric scraps. However, it’s important to ensure the fabric is strong enough to hold the pins firmly. I suggest a cotton poplin or linen fabric.

Pretty patchwork floral, stripe and linen pin cushion with pins inserted

What kind of stuffing material should I use?

There are a few different options to choose from. One popular choice is polyfill, which is easy to find and use. You can try mixing the polyfill with crushed walnut shells for a heavier pin cushion. And if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, you could use small fabric scraps as stuffing.

How can I ensure my pins won’t fall out?

When making your pin cushion, be sure to stitch the seams securely. I recommend using a fabric with a tight weave or adding a layer of felt or wool to the inside. Check out my blog on types of fabrics to learn more about weaves and suitable fabrics.

How do I care for my pin cushion?

If you want to keep your pin cushion looking neat and tidy, it’s best to gently spot-clean it whenever it gets dirty. Avoid washing it with water, though, as this can damage the stuffing and fabric.

Can I make a pin cushion as a gift?

If you’re looking for a thoughtful and practical gift for someone who loves sewing, you can’t go wrong with a handmade pin cushion. Check out my gifts for sewing enthusiasts guide for more gift ideas.

Conclusion

Having pin cushions in your sewing room can be very useful. This sewing project is perfect for beginners as it’s easy and quick to complete. It can also make a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves sewing.

How to Make a Pin Cushion

Creating a cute pin cushion is a fun and easy craft anyone can enjoy! Our step-by-step sewing tutorial allows beginners or pros to make one in under 30 minutes. Pin cushions are a handy sewing tool that keeps your pins organised and look lovely.

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Difficulty Easy

Estimated Cost $2.00

Materials

Cotton or linen fabric – small scraps
Stuffing material (polyfill or fabric scraps)
Thread

Tools

Sewing machine
Fabric shears
Pins

Instructions

Cut out the patchwork pieces
Start by cutting out a template from cardstock into a small square 6x6cm (2x2 inches) and use it to cut out the fabric. Cut out four squares.
Sew the patchwork together
Next, pin two squares with their right sides together and sew a 5mm (1/4 inch) seam. Repeat this step for the other two squares and press the seams open. Then, pin the pairs of patchwork squares with their right sides facing each other, matching up the seam allowances. Sew a 5mm (1/4 inch) seam and press it open.
Cut out the bottom piece
Cut out the bottom piece using the top of the pincushion as a template. Alternatively, repeat the patchwork steps above to make another piece for the bottom.
Finish sewing the pin cushion
Sew around the pincushion with a 1cm (1/2 inch) seam allowance, leaving a small opening in the seam to put in the stuffing. Trim off the corners and turn the pincushion to the right side. Stuff the scraps inside the small opening until the pincushion is compact so that the pins won't come through the bottom side. Finally, close the opening with an edge stitch or hand stitch.

Notes

Mix and match fabrics - get creative with your fabric choices! Try using different fabrics for the top and bottom of the pin cushion, or consider adding a decorative trim to give it an extra pop.
Add a felt base - for greater durability, attach a felt base to the bottom of your pincushion to prevent it from sliding around.

How to Make a Pin Cushion – Patchwork Pin Cushion Tutorial

Why You Will Love This Pin Cushion

Materials and Tools You’ll Need