Pin Boxes and Cushions

Pins are objects today that we take for granted, but have existed since man first walked the earth, when they were fashioned from thorns, fish bones or simply carved from wood. As metals were developed, starting with bronze, so the pin developed. Its manufacture and design thereafter became increasingly complex and its unit cost fell. Pin themselves form a collecting field, from early Egyptian, Saxon, Roman and medieval pins through to pin papers - a sheet of paper neatly laid out with rows of pins that were given as change for small amounts of money, giving rise to the term 'pin money', i.e. a very small amount. In the early years of pin production, centres of manufacture developed and these were often fiercely protected by guilds or Royal decree. Pins were used not so much for needlework, but for securing clothing and it was inevitable that containers of all sorts would be developed. The range of pincushions, boxes and pin cases is too vast to examine in any detail here, but it is one of the most popular fields of collecting, the variety being almost endless, with novelties of any type being produced by the needlewoman herself, as well as the specialist maker. 

Click on the catalogue below to view our Winter Sewing Sale 2024

Click on the catalogue below to view our Summer Sewing Sale 2024

Winter Sewing Sale 2023

A Box of Secrets

Robert Bleasdale explores the origins and hidden secrets of this rare box that was sold in our November 2022 sale for £6500 - click on the box to learn more...

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rvb@bleasdalesltd.co.uk

 

Mauchline Ware

Are you passionate about Mauchline Ware - why not join the Mauchline Ware Collectors Club?

Dorset Thimble Society   International

This society, established in 1985, welcomes members from all over the world. Collectors enjoy sharing their knowledge and the society invite guest experts to speak and produce informative newsletters. To find out more contact www.dorset-thimble-society.org.uk

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