My favorite old pincushion is made from hair -- my grandmother's. I have also made them from my hair and my mom's (collected the hair when we got it cut and after we laid it out to dry). Since I don't shed so much when I get my hair cut now, I use wool roving. Have a grand son allergic to nuts -- he can't be around the oil so this works.

My favorites are wool roving and walnut shells are a close second. The wool keeps your pins sharp and also prevents rust. Best of all both these fillings add weight to your pin cushion so that it stays where you put it.

I just read an article that said never to lick your thread because it would rust your needle. I have never had a rusted needle.

I've used rice - seems to work. Any thoughts on using rice?

Caution about using magnetic pin cushions close to a sewing machine with electronics or a mother board. A friend gave me a strong magnetic tray to use as a pincushion or a catch all. i asked at my sewing machine dealers and they advised not to use things with magnets close to any electronics. They told me a lady had ruined two mother boards in her sewing machine before they figured out she had a strong magnetic tray and a magnet on a handle to pick up stray pins. Magnets can be used around vintage machines, but not should not be close to any electronics, even your cell phone.