I use lizard litter (crushed walnut shells) found at a pet store. I also use silica sand found at a lumber yard...Home Depot, etc. I always have an inner liner for protections. I've been in many pin cushion exchanges and have never heard complaints. But, after following threads on crushed walnut shell, I've only given where I know they don't have nut allergies. I don't like stuffing...way too flimsy. I like my pincushions to be stable. Would love to find that wool roving...but, imagine it's pretty expensive. I do wool applique...maybe I should save some of the tiny pieces and cut them up more for stuffing???