We use silcon sand found at Hobby lobby, joAnns, any craft store, found in bags

Try the pet shops.

I USE BB'S FROM THE SPORTING GOOD STORE HEAVY AND WORKS FOR ME

I received a pin cushion filled with walnut shells, and the pins lost their "gliding" ability. Don't like it! Might want to use something else.

How about steel wool the one you normally use to clean pots and pans?

According with this tut, it helps to sharpen the needles and I suppose does the same with the pins.

Take a look
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-121748-1.htm

Try PetSmart. I bought a five pound bag there. Ask for lizard litter--they make it out of crushed walnut shells. Be prepared to pay an arm and a leg. froggyintexas

I use the walnut shells from pet smart, never had a problem that I'm aware of. I only paid around $8.oo for a ten pound bag.

You can find it at the pet stores, called Lizzard Bedding . Comes in a 5-qt bag, sells for about $7.00 per bag.

Some pet shops carry cruched nut shells. Not sure what the nut mix is and if it would work.

I got a big bag of crushed walnut shells at PetSmart in Lake Havasu, AZ this winter and shared it with a friend. It sure doesn't take long to use it up if you are making pincushions and you keep giving them away!

Judy