Rooms Abloom

This is one tool you won't want to hide in a sewing kit. Select a festive floral or toile to make this pin cushion that is both functional and simple to make.

Pin Cushion Instructions:

Finished size: 3 1/2" across x 2" high.

You need: Floral-print cotton fabric remnant; 1/2 yard of coordinating piping; 1/2 yard of coordinating 5/8" wide ribbon; 3 1/2" circle of heavy cardboard; heavy-duty thread and needle; 2 cups of sawdust; fabric glue; tape measure; scissors; pins.

Cutting: From fabric, cut one 10" circle and one 5" circle.

Making base: Place smaller fabric circle face down; center cardboard on top. Wrap and glue fabric edges to wrong side of cardboard. Glue piping around edge of base, overlapping ends.

Making top: Thread needle with 3 feet of thread; knot ends. Sew running stitches 1/2" from edge of larger fabric circle. Fill center of circle with half of sawdust. Pull up thread ends slightly, leaving center open. Pack tightly with sawdust. Pull up thread ends to close, forming ball. Tie ends securely; trim excess and apply glue to knot to seal. Press knot end against surface to flatten bottom. Use hands to mold top into rounded shape. Fold ribbon in half lengthwise. Wrap and tie ribbon around center of top, applying glue under ribbon in a few spots. Tie end in bow; open out folded edges and trim ends.

Assembling pin cushion: Apply glue to wrong side of base; press top, knot side down, onto center of base. Hold until glue sets, then let dry thoroughly.

--Designed by Luba Kierkosz