How to Make a Magnetic Pincushion

Keep track of pins with a magnetic pin cushion.

A magnetic pincushion isn't really a pincushion. Rather, it's an easy way to keep track of pins and needles by adhering them to a magnet instead of sticking them in a stuffed cushion. Make a magnetic pincushion to wear on your wrist and you'll always have pins handy while you're sewing. Sweep the magnet over the floor around your sewing area to pick up any pins that may have fallen while you worked. These pincushions make good gifts for your crafty friends and relatives, too.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric 8 inches by 6 inches
• Needle and thread or sewing machine
• Iron
• Velcro dot or hook and loop tape
• Metal candy tin
• Acrylic paint
• Paintbrush
• Refrigerator magnet
• Scissors
• Hot glue

Instructions

1. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the right sides of the fabric facing in. Sew a 1/4 inch seam down the length of the fabric. Turn the fabric right side out.

2. Tuck in the raw edge of the fabric at either end and press with the iron. Wrap the strip of cloth around your wrist and mark where the ends overlap. Sew one-half of the Velcro dot at this point on each end of the cloth strip. If you don't have a Velcro dot, use a 1 inch piece of hook and loop tape.

3. Paint the outside of your candy tin with acrylic paint. Let dry.

4. Trim the refrigerator magnet to fit inside the bottom of your tin. Use one of those flexible magnets companies give away for advertising.

5. Glue the magnet, advertising face down, into the bottom of your tin with a dab of hot glue. Press down firmly to adhere the magnet to the tin.

6. Glue the bottom of the tin to your fabric-covered bracelet.

7. Wrap the bracelet around your wrist and secure with the Velcro. Open the lid of the tin box and put pins inside. The magnet will keep the pins from falling out while you work. Close the lid when you're done and use the "pincushion" to store your pins.

References

• DIY Style: DIY Sewing Accessories --- Magnetic Pin Cushion