After reading discussions on the QuiltArt list, I became concerned about throwing old needles and pins into the trash, because people who might sort through trash for recycling could be hurt. At first I tried suggestions to put the bent pins into a jar or container, but soon got tired of taking the lids on and off.
So I put to use this vintage piggy bank that I inherited. I’ve always loved this piggy bank, it brings back happy memories of being in my grandmother’s house — so much that I even portrayed the piggy in my quilt “The Vintage Purse.”
And just in case someone tries to rob my piggy bank, I put labels on the top to warn that there is no money in this bank — just “Danger! Bent pins and broken needles.”
Brilliant idea!
Thanks for your encouragement and your Piggy Bank Needle Holder is a stroke of genius. Why didn’t I think of that!?
The bank is actually on a table behind the one where my sewing machine sits. Seems like junk just naturally accumulates there anyway — now at least there’s something that I enjoy looking at, lol!
I used an awl and made a hole large enough for a straight pin to go thru on the top of a film container……that’s my pin/needle collector. Once its full, I have another one handy….could also use pill containers.
LOVE your piggy bank, but it would take up too much room for me……..!!!
I use a clear glass ornament – its filled with threads, pins, needles and a pinch of salt. Mine is hung in my studio window as a witchball. Celtic Tradition says, that any evil or misfortune that heads your way, will be confused and captured by the threads, or will feel compelled to count each grain of salt; making it impossible for evil to come inside.
And it keeps me from reusing a needle I meant to throw away.
Oh, my~! Such a socially conscious thing to do. I use my old machine needles to hang my quilts in my studio! Works really well – only leaves a small hole.
Congrats on all the shows coming up!
Thanks Olga, I was really excited to see that my quilt was in Sculpture magazine. Something I never thought would happen!!
Brilliant idea! I just use a tiny bowl, but like all bowls it spills its contents from time to time.
By the way, I really enjoyed seeing your name and work on the first page of my latest Sculpture magazine. Good luck with the show.
What a cute and clever idea. I’d actually stop throwing my pins in the trash if I had a bank nearby. I’ll have to look for a red mushroom one.