I laughed when I first saw this book as it seemed so niche and specialised. Who on earth needs a whole book just on pincushions? Isn’t one or maybe two pincushions enough for anyone? Surely you don’t need several in every room? I know I do have a tendency to rush round the house screaming “Where’s the pincushion gone?” – but even I don’t need anywhere near the 35 featured in this book.
And then I thought what about pincushions as unusual party or wedding favours, or as quick and easy-to-make items that will sell like hotcakes at a school bazaar or fundraiser – or for someone wanting to throw a craft party to raise a bit of money for charity? I’m sure there are 101 other reasons – and whatever your reason there are some really cute pincushions in this book.
Road-testing a project
When I review a book I always like to put it through its paces by trying out a project. I had an idle flip through thinking there’s no way I need yet another pincushion and then I saw this idea of pure genius. A pincushion that wraps round your sewing machine arm. “Oh yes I do!” I cried. I’m always losing the giant sized pincushion (how is it possible?) that sits on my sewing table and I end up with pins scattered on the carpet and clogging up the vacuum cleaner.
This little beauty means that won’t ever happen again. It’s basically two strips of fabric sewn together with wadding in the cushion section (separated from the rest by a couple of seams) and a pair of fasteners or a bit of Velcro to attach it. Measurements depend on the size of your own machine. A 10 minute job. Fabulous!
Whether you like your fruit ‘n veg (strawberries, pears, peas in a pod, pumpkins) or pets (ladybirds, dinosaurs, owls. tortoises, rabbits, mice, aliens or hedgehogs) there’s a pincushion for you. Even a Mexican Day of the Dead style one. There are all sorts of materials and techniques from felt to bargello and some very practical designs – such as those you can wear on a wrist or finger or those that incorporate storage.
This is a beautifully photographed and presented book with very clearly drawn step-by-step illustrations, a set of templates and a section on techniques. The book is by Kate Haxell and is published by Cico for £12.99 – available on Amazon at the time of writing for £8.44
