Victorian Beadwork Make-Do Pin Cushion

Antiques : Accessories : Sewing

 

Victorians were often extravagant, but could also thrifty. They enjoyed using broken items to “make-do” a new item. This wonderful pincushion c. 1880 is an example of Victorian ingenuity.

The base is an EAPG, Early American Pattern Glass, compote or candy dish with a broken top. The base is still in perfect condition.

The bead work might have been a cream cover, a fancy doily that was used in proper homes to keep the flies out of the cream pitcher. The beads are very tiny and the work is excellent. The piece is trimmed with silk Turk's Head knot fringe.

The stuffing is fine sawdust, a bit of which has leaked out over the years but it is still quite tightly filled.

This would be a unique addition to any fine sewing collection!

Size: About 6 inches tall; 5 inch diameter at the top.

Item ID: A85