The pincushion is one of the most essential tools a seamstress possesses. Magnetic pin holders may catch pins with ease but for pin retrieval, nothing beats the pin cushion. We all know the red tomato shaped pincushion, stuffed tightly with sawdust or roving, with the attached emery filled strawberry for sharpening pins. This form dates to the Victorian era when it was thought that placing a tomato on the mantel would bring prosperity to the home. Now, in honor of the approaching All Hallows Eve, you can make these pumpkin shaped pin cushions originally published in the October 1964 issue of Workbasket Magazine. If you are really daring you can transform your pumpkin into a jack-o'-lantern with a Sharpie pen and a pair of google eyes. This easy to follow pattern and instructions show you how. Download HERE.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.
Such a darling pin cushion!
ReplyDeleteI'd wondered about the origin of the tomato pin cushion. Thanks for the info!
this is beyond cute! My mother always had the tomato pincushion, then she went to the strawberry one. She would have loved this.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of a Pumpkin so much better that a tomato. Everyone has a tomato!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful idea to decorate the old sewing room for fall! Love the history of the tomato... maybe I should like my windows with them! Thanks, Mary!
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