Submitted by Arlene

Nearly everyone has seen the little strawberry on the classic tomato pincushion, and most people know that it is very handy for sharpening needles, pins and safety pins.
What is not so well known, is that there’s a trick to using it. Stick a needle or pin straight into the emery and then pull back on the sides of the fabric with your fingers, compacting the crystals.  Move the pin gently in a circular motion, and the crystals will grate against the point, sharpening it quickly and easily.