Pincushion-Thread Catcher For Sewing Table

Learn how to make an all-in-one pincushion and trash bag that hangs from your sewing desk to catch scraps and threads with Nicki LaFoille as your instructor! Nicki guides you through the supplies needed and the dimensions of the pieces. While she uses door hinges as weights for the pincushion to keep it in place, you can substitute them with any flat and heavy objects. You’ll also learn alternatives for the optional plastic mesh used to keep the trash bag’s opening open, like zip ties.

Nicki starts by showing how to create the straps that secure the trash bag to the pincushion. You will then learn how to attach the straps to the pincushion rectangle and assemble the pincushion itself.

Next, stitch the outer trash bag and lining following Nicki’s instructions, leaving an opening in the center back seam for turning everything right side out.

Nicki shows how to box the corners of both the outer trash bag and lining to create depth. Then, she demonstrates how to align and sandwich the pincushion straps between the trash bag layers. Stitch the upper edge of the trash bag with a ½” seam allowance, then turn it right side out.

Nicki walks you through creating a flexible ½”-wide ring from plastic mesh (commonly used for needlepoint) or using a zip tie. Insert the ring between the lining and outer bag and adjust it to the upper edge. Topstitch below the ring, then close the lining opening with another topstitch.

Finally, follow Nicki’s instructions to add weights and stuffing to the pincushion and stitch the opening closed.