I was in Big Lots this afternoon with my 6yo DGS and we were browing in the hardware aisle. I found a neat little tool that looks like a pen(even has clip) but extends to about 2 feet. It is magnetic and is made to pick up screws and other lightweight hardware items. Ah ha....Light bulb goes on...would be great for picking up needles and pins that get spilled while sewing. Would even pick up metal thimbles and smaller items like that. Won't even have to bend over! LOL
My DGS loves things like this so I got him one, also. He has spent hours going around the house seeing what all he can pick up with it. He also reminded me that "in the old days, teachers used these as pointers". HaHa!
Well, for $1.80 each, I think it is a very effective new sewing tool...not to mention a toy to keep a very active 6 year old entertained!!!!! :)