Pincushion

The pincushion is a small, approximately 30 cm ² cushion with soft material ( fabric scraps, cotton wool ) is filled. It is often made from felt or embroidered canvas.

Function

The pin cushion is used for storage of needles, which are inserted into the cushion to prevent injuries from accidental spread to the tip of the needle. The underside of the base of the needle cushion is generally made ​​of a rigid piece of cardboard.

History

Pincushion came on only when needles were cheap as industrial product and could be protected by nickel plating or chrome plating against rust. Before needles were valuable and were stored for example in small fat-filled cans.

Margarete Steiff was sewing for a pattern from the magazine fashion 8 December 1879 pincushion in elephant shape. This Elefäntle was soon popular as a toy and formed the foundation for the German toy company Steiff.