As someone with a thrifting and upcycling addiction, I have a pretty large stash of treasures tucked away in my craft closet.
Some of the pieces are things I couldn't resist when I spotted them. Even though I had no idea what I was going to do with them when I got them home.
Others, I knew exactly what they could become, the moment I laid eyes on them.
And then there are the ones I went hunting for, with a very specific craft in mind.
Of course, the one thing that all my thrifting makeovers have in common, is that they usually sit for quite a while, before I get around to the DIY.
You know the saying...so many projects, so little time.
For example, this bag of small picture frames was purchased at Savers way back in July for $4.99. It's one of those items I was specifically looking for...and got super lucky on my first trip out.
Well last night, I finally made the time to fish that baggie out of the drawer and make the pincushion I'd been dreaming about for six long months.
I was motivated by the fact that I wanted to feature it today, in our first Thrift Store Decor Team hop of the year.
However, as I was digging through my repurposed craft cabinet, I also came across a small terracotta pot, I picked up somewhere and thought hmmm, I bet this would make an adorable pincushion as well.
I pictured a sweet, colorful duo, so lovely, that no matter what room I left my sewing supplies in, they'd basically resemble decor.
I wasn't wrong.
But...before I got started with the pincushion process, I did take a teeny tiny detour to give that boring mini pot a small cottage style makeover.
Decorating The Pot With Decoupage
First, I brushed on a bit of chalk paint to give it a weathered appearance. It's a process I've used to age terracotta pots before.
Next, I grabbed a small rose, cut away from a napkin, that I had left over from my decoupage candle DIY.
Clearly, I never throw anything away.
Once the paint was dry to the touch, I added some decoupage medium to the pot. I don't love Mod Podge.
I prefer Dixie Belle Satin Sealer and I applied it with a stiff brush.
Then I gently pressed that very delicate napkin rose onto the pot and smoothed it out with my finger.
Finally, I coated the entire pot with the satin sealer and set it aside to dry.
How To Make No Sew Pincushions
In the meantime, I gathered my supplies to make the actual pincushions.
Keep in mind that I used a small picture frame and flower pot, but you could use this technique to make a pincushion out of vintage teacup or a vacation shot glass, trinket boxes, baskets, egg cups and more.
Literally any kind of container will do.
- Fiberfill
- Fabric - I used scraps from the fabric I used to cover my bathroom door
- Small Rubber Bands
- Glue Gun/ Glue Sticks
- Scissors
My first instinct did involve them, but then I decided I wasn't in the mood to stitch anything.
So instead, I used these really small rubber bands.
Which makes this a no sew DIY.
Ironic isn't it?
The Steps
I began by cutting a piece of fabric for the flower pot. It was little larger the opening, and no, it wasn't round, and no, it didn't matter.
I did the same with the frame.
Then, I tore off a bit fiberfill and placed it in the center of each piece of fabric.
I used two big handfuls, as I wanted very poofy and taut cushions to push my pins into.
For the flower pot, since I needed a round poof shape, I gathered all four corners at once and fastened them together, tightly, with two rubber bands.
But for the frame, I banded two opposite corners together, then I grabbed the other two and added more rubber bands.
Joining them in this way allowed me to tuck in the ends and create a small square, which would fit inside the frame much easier.
And look much neater.
The last part of this process was to place the cushions inside the containers and secure them with a bit of hot glue.
When I was done, I had two of the most darling upcycled pincushions.
Custom designed to match my decor.
Perfectly.
Dressed up with pearl pins.
Ready for the next time I grab my needle and thread.
And actually make a project that requires sewing.
😉
What kind of pincushion would you make?
Oh - and don't forget about the hop!
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Happy Thrifting, Friends!
You are right! These are adorable. And how fun that you can make a no-sew pun cushion for all your sewing projects.
ReplyDeleteThanks Marianne! Yes...and kind of ironic. Haha!!
DeletePretty cute Kim, a fun makeover for something you need to make all of your sewing projects. Happy midweek.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Linda! I had a fun time making this one and I can't wait to use it.
DeleteI love it!!! I needed a new pin cushion, I had an old tomato one, do you remember those? My mom crochet me a new pin cushion that is a hedgehog. I posted it awhile back while I was working on Sam's t-shirt quilt.
ReplyDeletexx oo
I do remember, Carla! Your mom is one talented lady...and we had that same tomato growing up. I remember all the different pins in it and the green leaf stem! Maybe next time I'm looking for fabric I should grab some orange and go retro!! xo
DeleteKim, you did a great job with making both of those pin cushions. I LOVE the flower pot one you made. They are perfect to use for all of your sewing projects!
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie!! I do have a project in mind, and now I have a pretty place to keep my pin. Hope you are enjoying the week!
DeleteThese turned out fabulous Kim! There's nothing better than an upcycle that's practical but looks so pretty it can be used as decor!
ReplyDeleteThanks Donna! That was my thought, too, especially in this tiny cottage. ☺️
DeleteThat's so cute Kim! I have all the materials and now I want to make one too!
ReplyDeleteOh, I bet you could come up with something really cute, Sara!
DeleteThose are super cute!
ReplyDeleteThanks Joanne, so easy to make, too!
DeleteKim! These are the cutest!I love that it's no sew too.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Mari! I love that I could make them no sew, too. It just makes it a lot easier or less intimidating for some DIYers. Including me!! ☺️
DeleteYour pin cushions are just adorable! I was wondering what you were going to do with the little frame, it's perfect. I still have my grandmothers pin cushions from many years ago. It puts a big smile on my face when I use my sewing machine (rare these days). Wishing you a beautiful day!
ReplyDeleteYou are so lucky to have those adorable keepsakes from your grandmother, Kristin. I'm sure it makes you light up. I'm sewing a little less lately, as well, hence my no sew pincushions! Haha!! Thanks for the visit today and I wish you a beautiful day, too! ☺️
DeleteWhat an adorable and easy DIY! my favorites!! Sometimes i don't have the time or energy to sit down and create something but this is perfect when you're in the mood to make something but not to clean up a mess! Going on a hunt around my home to see what I can turn into a pin cushion!!
ReplyDeleteOh gosh, I'm so happy you found this one enticing! Yay! I totally get it, too. So many crafting projects involve getting your hands messy. This one is simple, clean and so darn cute. I hope you find some fun things to transform and if you do you, you must follow up and let me know!
DeleteOh my gosh. You've just opened up a new world for me... I would never have dreamed of the cutest frame or clay pot turn into pin cushions! I need one to hang on my wall stat! I'm always losing pins but this is pretty and practical! Thanks for the inspo!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Donna! And yay...I'm so glad you enjoyed this one. I've wanted to make my own pin cushions for too long and I'm glad I finally did it, so easy. I know with your creativity you could make some fantastic ones, especially on the wall!! ❤️
DeleteDear Kim, everything looks so beautiful!!! I really appreciate your creative talent! Thank you so much for sharing, your posts are always such a joy and inspiration!
ReplyDeleteLinda, you are the sweetest! Thank you so much for your visit and comment. I hope you are having a lovely day!
DeleteWow! What a great idea Kim😉and I was ready to donate a little tea cup-not anymore! She’s going to be a pincushion. And after I read your post this morning I went to my local thrift store & found 4 ceiling fan glass globes to make your angel idea from December of 2024! I’ve been looking everywhere for them. Luck was on my side today👏. Thank you for all your wonderful ideas. You are so creative
ReplyDeleteCathy!! You just totally made my day!! For real!! 💕 It makes me so happy when I hear that people are making the crafts I share. That is what it's all about!! I'm glad to hear that you were able to find some fan globes, too. I swear it's either feast or famine when I'm trying to find them. I hope you have a lovely weekend ...and if you do make the pin cushions or angels. I hope you'll let me know!!
DeleteI love the project so cute and functional ~Beth
ReplyDeleteThank you, Beth! You are always so kind.
DeleteThese are both very cute! You have reminded me that somewhere in my stash is a broken pin cushion doll that I need to reglue and sew a new skirt for. She's been in a box for far too long!
ReplyDeleteOh, that sounds interesting. I hope you’ll share her. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a pin cushion doll. Well, other than a voodoo doll on Scooby Doo and I doubt that’s what you mean. 🤣
DeleteSo perfectly pretty Kim! I love the fabric you chose for both projects, and I appreciate your clear steps to do a no-sew pincushion! :)
ReplyDeleteThe little rose on the pot is darling!
pinned!
gail
Thanks Gail! I love that fabric, too. I have just a little bit left, but I was saving it to use on something special.
DeleteYou have such vision. You re love something into a new purpose and explain your steps so well so the rest of us uncrafty peeps might be able to do this lol! The pin cushion pot with the rose is too adorable. Have a great rest of your week. Hugs. Kris
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kris! That feedback means a lot. 💕 Sometimes I wonder if my posts are too long or too detailed, but then I think about being a beginner, so I include all the steps and try to answer all the questions that might pop up, along the way. I guess you can take the teacher out of the classroom, but…😉 I hope you’re having a warm week!
DeleteI love these Kim! The frame pincushion is my favorite!
ReplyDeleteThanks Tania! That frame is so cute, I knew it would be perfect for this the moment I saw it.
DeleteI never would have thought of using a picture frame as a pincushion. But, you did! Love them both, Kim!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ann! This is an idea I’ve wanted to try for a long time. I’m so glad I finally got around to it and that you love it as much as I do!!
DeleteKim! This is so beautiful what a way to combine my two loves, sewing and DIY! I am going to keep my eyes peeled this weekend for some little pots this weekend at my local thrift!
ReplyDelete-Vivian
I’m so glad that you like this, Vivian, and that it’s inspired to you to make your own! I hope you’ll share with me when they’re complete. Thanks so much for the visit and comment today! 🥰
DeleteYou are so clever! Those are adorable. I think I like the plant pot just on its own. It’s so pretty.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Pattie!! Truth be told I haven’t sewn anything in a while, but that little pin cushion pot is sitting out on my kitchen fireplace mantle, because it’s just too pretty to hide away!
DeleteCute idea. Years ago I made several pin cushions and I think I have one left. Yours are really adorable. Always fun to see you make something delightful! xo Diana
ReplyDeleteThank you, Diana! I’ve never tried to make a pin cushion before, and the only pretty one I have is old and tattered from years of use. My sister gave it to me as a gift and I love it, but I definitely needed more… and it was a good excuse to get a little creative!
DeleteI think these are the cutest pin cushions I have ever seen!!! Such a cute idea and easy craft. Especially using the rubber bands! Pinned! -Julie
ReplyDeleteJulie, that is just the nicest comment. Thank you so much! I’m happy with that rubber band idea, too. I’m all about making things as easy as possible, especially when it comes to crafting! ☺️
DeleteKim,
ReplyDeleteI owe you a big apology for not stopping by sooner than this...It has been a busy couple months and I thought that the second Christmas without Joe would be easier but I was wrong...I could up on all your posts that I missed and you have been busy...I loved your post about the upcoming year...Thanks so much for all your visits...And kind comments....I am trying to slow down a bit and not be in such a hurry especially with my decorating from Season to season...I am giving myself til the end of January to pack Christmas away and redecorate for Winter and Valentine's..I want to enjoy the journey and also let my imagination flow and do things differently...I have enjoyed decorating the Den for Winter and now I am enjoying spending time in there...I am working on my Kitchen now , decorating it for Winter...I too like the Monthly lists that Joanne does and I will continue to do that in the upcoming year as I find it keeps me on track...Wishing a Happy , Healthy New Year to you and your family, my friend...
Hugs,
Deb
Debbie-Dabble Blog
Debbie, please never feel the need to apologize for not visiting or commenting on my blog. I’m always touched when people visit, but you never need to feel obligated. ❤️ I can only imagine the hole you feel at Christmas now and it’s very understandable. Grief does not have an expiration date. I’m glad you’re giving yourself some grace and taking your time with your decorating and DIYs. I wish you nothing but happiness in 2026 my friend. I can’t wait to see what you share!!❤️❤️❤️
DeleteWhat a fun project this was to follow along! It is amazing how you see possibilities and make them happen too (doesn't always happen for me, lol!) I get an idea, and somehow it ends up far different than what I had in mind, but I usually like it. I guess that is the fun part of crafting for us! January Blessings wished for you!
ReplyDeleteHi Marilyn! I’m so glad you enjoyed this one. I have to say so far, it’s the most fun I’ve had crafting all year. And trust me things don’t always turn out the way I have them in my mind either. I just got lucky with these! Happy New Year, my friend!
DeleteLovely DiY! I love it!
ReplyDeleteBjxxx,
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Thank you so much, Teresa! This was a fun one. ☺️
Deleteboth are useful, I am not sure which I favor. I'd love to have you share with Create-it Link Party https://tryit-likeit.com/link-party-it/
ReplyDeleteThanks for the invite Janet. I'll check it out!
Delete... and they both match your decor so well.
ReplyDeleteMy favourite one is the plant pot.
Enjoy these January days, 2026 seems to be flying by already!!!
All the best Jan
☺️ Thanks Jan! They are very sweet and the colors are bringing a little brightness to these dark and cold January days!
DeleteKim, these are so darling that I think I would make them and leave them in a handy place in the kitchen or office. I'm always needing a pin or two and this would be so darling sitting by a photo frame on a shelf. Pinned.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Honestly, mine are sitting out in the kitchen on top of my tiny fireplace. They brighten the space up with or without pins. Although there are pins in both...you know, just in case! 😉
DeleteI'm going to make one for each of my granddaughters and daughters and use; a picture of something memorable in their life! I also have items around the house that are special to them as use them for the container. Love it thank you
ReplyDeleteI love that idea! That is so sweet and I'm humbled that my little craft has sparked your sentimental creativity!! I just know they'll be beautiful...and treasured!! Thank you for sharing this with me!! 💕
Delete