Thanks to all who weighed in so far. I have tried the magnet route and my arthritis really prefers that the pins be sticking up as pulling them off the magnet is not as effortless somehow. I think I may try QuiltNama's teacup idea as I have a stray small mug and some wool scraps that should work for this project. But I hate to stop my quilting long enough to make one.
What I had hoped for is a really FABULOUS flat pin cushion I could order already made. Then if I liked it, I could just order three or four! Anyone know a source where I can purchase the quilter's dream pin cushion?