Vintage Pincushions

Vintage pincushions come in all shapes and sizes. Each one possesses special attractions, and all are so pretty that it is only by keeping in mind the special purpose to be served a selection can be easily made. There are shapes of vintage pincushions suitable for hanging upon the gasolier, others for placing on the dressing case and many others which bespeak their adaptability to the work-basket or bag. Among them are those which will please all tastes.

Within this web page you will surely find a vintage pincushion pattern or two that beckons you to make it. All items herein are easily made with materials that can usually be found in the scrapbag or purchased at little cost.

Roll Pincushion

Figure No. 1. - The cover of this novel vintage cushion is of silk and is drawn in closely several inches from the ends, which are turned over on the cushion and caught down prettily over a frill of deep lace. A full bow of wide ribbon is tacked over each gathered end, and similar ribbons cross it diagonally from beneath the lace and are tied in a large bow similar ribbons cross it diagonally from beneath the lace and are tied in a large bow at the center. Any color or combination of colors may be selected for a cushion, and plush, velvet, satin or Surah, either plain or brocaded, may be used in the construction of this pincushion.

Round Embroidered Pincushion

This round vintage pin cushion measures six inches in diameter when finished. The work requires two skeins of floss and 2 yards narrow silk ribbon. Floss and ribbon should match in color.

Petals of flowers and the leaves are worked solid in Satin Stitch. Centers of flowers consist of a group of French Knots. Eyelets for lacing are worked with the silk. Stems are outlined. Scallops on edge are worked in Buttonhole Stitch.

Vintage pincushions were made in a wide variety of sizes depending on their use. One may have wished to make a small 2 x 2 inch pincushion to keep in a small tin but also required a larger one measuring 7 x 14 inches to keep near the embroidery basket. Whatever the taste of the embroiderer, a pincushion could, and was, adapted to her likes and needs.

Embroidery patterns available elsewhere on this site or in books can be easily adapted to any size pincushion by use of a copy machine or computer to enlarge or reduce the pattern as necessary. One can also create transfers by purchasing special paper that can be printed on a printer or used in a copy machine. Before purchasing such items, be sure to read the instructions to verify you are purchasing the type of transfer medium you need.

Additional vintage pincushions will be highlighted on this page from time to time. Please check back often.