I use crushed walnuts but some people are allergic to nuts. I love the chicken pincushion and Jennie on Missouri Star Quilt just did a tutorial on making one. She stuffs with whatever.

I use crushed walnut shells . . . sold at pet supply stores for 'lizard litter' . . . It keeps the pins sharp.

I made several of the chickens and used the gravel used in fish tanks, read it somewhere.

After using ground walnut shells and sand, I am back to fiberfill because it is easier to use. Other stuffings probably benefit pins and needles a bit more by applying some degree of sharpening friction, but not enough to mitigate the trouble you have trying to get them into the pin cushion. MSQC has a new video on chicken pin cushions and it looks really easy and fun. froggyintexas

I love to make pin cushions they are a great project that you can use or share with others the one thing that I have noticed through out making the pin cushions is it is really important to get them well stuffed so that they are firm. Years ago I sat in on a class about making teddy bears and the instructor spent a lot of time talking about how to stuff your bear project and the importance of making sure that the filling is stable and does not shift around. We are not making beanie babies. By taking time and working your filling in you will have a superior end product that will be used and enjoyed.

I go to the pet store and buy Lizard Litter which is crushed English Walnut Shells. It is much cheaper and keeps the pins and needles sharp.

I love lavender must get some!

I use fine steel wool. It sharpens your pins. You can buy it by the bag at Lowes or Home Depot. Works wonders. Nuts are bad because of nut allergies.

I prefer magnetic pin cushions. I buy pretty saucers at the thrift store, then glue a couple strong magnets to the underside. The magnets are strong enough to hold the pins through the china. Functional, lovely and easy!