I love pincushions to look at, but for everyday use I use a magnetic pin cushion. I sew fast and don't take time to stick pins in a cushion... I just toss them in the general direction of the magnetic dish and it sucks them right in! Super easy.
I do love to make and give pin cushions and have some special ones from swaps and gifts sitting about for decoration in my sewing room. Will look into the walnut shells for gift pincushions....
Great thread!