Tutorial: Log Cabin Pincushion

11/1/2020

Are you in need of a new pincushion? Look no further, because the Log Cabin pincushion is not only functional, but pretty too! Made up of strips of light and dark fabrics, you can use fabric from your scrap bin. And while you’re at it, why not make a second one to give to a friend? An easy and quick sew to spruce up your sewing room.

Click here to download the pdf version.

Materials:

Cut the following fabric:
* One (1) 2¼” x 2¼” square (light fabric A)
* Two (2) 1” x 2¼” strips (dark fabric B)
* Two (2) 1” x 3¼” strips (light fabric C)
* Two (2) 1¼” x 3¼” strips (dark fabric D)
* Two (2) 1¼” x 4¾” strips (light fabric E)

* One (1) 5” square for back of pincushion (any matching fabric)
* Two (2) 5” squares of batting

* matching thread
* 3” piece ribbon (optional)
* Filler (ground walnut shells, steel wool, sawdust, sand, lentils, fabric scraps)
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Notes:

Be very precise with measurements when cutting fabric.
Use a ¼” seam allowance.
Press all seams open.
Remember to backstitch.
Finished size approximately: 4¼” square

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Instructions:

1. Start by laying fabric pieces for the top of the pincushion out flat (See photo). Sew the B fabric strips to opposite sides of piece A. Press seams open.

2. Add pieces C to the other two sides of block A. Press seams.

3. Continue doing this with pieces D and E. Press after each set of strips are added.

4. Layer and center top of pincushion on batting, pin in place with a few pins. Do the same with backing fabric.

5. Quilt as desired. I quilted straight lines about a ¼” from each other. Adjust stitch length to a slightly bigger stitch.

6. Trim batting and backing fabric to match top - approximately 4¾“ square.

7. Optional: Fold ribbon in half and pin to one side of the pincushion top. Stitch in place.