P&N: Pincushion - technique: bottlecap

I've become enthralled with bottle cap pincushions lately! They're quick, easy, and beautiful. And they reuse bottle caps that can't be recycled! ... and the bottle cap prevents needles and pins from sticking all the way through and out the bottom. :)

For this swap you'll make 3 bottle cap pincushions. (One each for three partners.) You can make the top cushion from a circle of felt or other fabric (I have used silk, velvet, quilting cottons, and lots of other options!) .. The bottom and sides should be made of felt. You can cover the felt sides with a ribbon, if you like.

A helpful hint for the top cushion-- when you make the gathering stitches for the circle, try making the stitches about 1/4 inch long. The longer stitches give deep pleats which help the circle gather up tightly. Tiny little stitches make the gathering up frustrating. Also, be sure to use a strong thread for your gathering! It's very frustrating when your gathering thread breaks as you're pulling everything tight.

Here are a couple of links to show you how to make your bottle cap pincushions and to give you some great ideas about color and stitch-work!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/verybigjen/sets/72057594099768007/

http://www.craftstylish.com/item/945/how-to-make-pretty-pincushions