SafePlants

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Safe for Children?

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❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

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❓ Neutral: 0
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Safe for Cats?

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Safe for Reptiles?

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pincushions

Scientific Name: Scabiosa

Family: Dipsacaceae

Category: Dicot

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Pincushions: A Seamstress's Best Friend

Pincushions are small cushions, typically 3–5 cm (1.2–2.0 in) across, used in sewing to store pins and needles with their heads exposed for easy access. They are a sewing necessity, offering a safe and convenient place to keep pins organized and within reach.

Considerations for Children

  • Pincushions contain pins and needles, which pose a risk of puncture wounds if handled carelessly.
  • Small pincushions (e.g., 1-1/2 inches tall) could present a choking hazard for very young children.

Quirky Facts

  • During World War I, British soldiers crafted pincushions and sent them home to their loved ones.
  • The small strawberry often accompanying a tomato pincushion is actually an emery bag used for sharpening pins and needles.

Styles and Varieties

  • Traditional: Tomato pincushions are a classic design, often accompanied by a strawberry emery.
  • Themed: Pincushions can be designed in a wide array of shapes and styles, including wedding cakes, fruits, cupcakes, caravans, and even characters from literature.
  • Wrist Pincushions: These offer hands-free convenience, allowing you to keep pins readily available while sewing.
  • Handmade: Many sewists enjoy creating their own unique pincushions, customizing them with decorative fabrics, embroidery, and other embellishments.
  • Antique and Collectible: Vintage and antique pincushions are sought after by collectors.
  • Magnetic: Magnetic pin cushions can keep the pins organized.

DIY Pincushions

  • Pincushions are a popular DIY project, with countless tutorials available online and in books.
  • Common materials for making pincushions include fabric scraps, felt, stuffing, mason jars, and teacups.
  • Free patterns and tutorials can be found on platforms like Pinterest and sewing blogs.

Where to Find Pincushions

  • Pincushions are widely available for purchase at craft stores, online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon, and auction sites like eBay.
  • You can find both handmade and commercially produced pincushions in a variety of styles and price ranges.