favorite pincushions

pin-cushi-ion sounds like pin-koo sh-uhn
noun
description: A small cushion that is used in sewing to store pins or needles until needed.
origin date:1625–35

These are some of my favorite pincushions. From left to right:

• Marushka is a cloth doll pincushion that I made with a pocket in her tummy for a thimble and a pocket in her back for scissors. I must admit to not putting too many pins in her, ’cause I don’t want to stab her!
• The cloth bunny was made for me by a friend and is happy to sit with the other pincushions until needed.
• The embroidered wool pincushion is one of my oldest needle work treasures. It was given to me by my friend Phyllis in the 8th grade. She went on a trip to the United Nations in NY, and bought this at the gift store, it was made in Hungary.
• Certainly a staple for any needle worker is the tomato pincushion. I use mine for my sewing machine needles, I label each section with a needle size, and try to remember to stick the needle back in the right section! Sometimes just the thought of being organized is enough!
• The colorful chicken was given as a gift at a luncheon sponsored by a local quilt group. I applaud all volunteers that put in time to do these gifts for their groups!
• The velvet pincushion is one I made with a pretty ribbon flower.
• Lastly but certainly not least is a pincushion that no collection would be complete without! I love these happy little people, and I use this one often as you can tell by all of the holes in it!

For further reading on pincushions see the Layette pincushions at the V&A Museum of Childhood.
Here is an excellent blog on every thing that you would want to know about  pincushions, The Domestic Diva.

Happy stitching, poking and pinning!- Christen