Expert: Irene Schwall - 4/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have an old (antique?) pincusion that I believe was my grandmothers.  It was with my mother's estate, but I hadn't see it before.  I am attaching a pictures of it. It is peach material with ecrue crochet around it. I am wonder how old it is and if there is a collector market for these.

ANSWER: Hello Judy,
Thank you for your query and for attaching a photograph - this is always helpful.
Before continuing, can you please give me a full condition report on the pincushion.  From the photo there appears to be some damage to the pink fabric.  Are you able to 'see' inside of the cushion?  I'm curious about the stuffing.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks.
Irene

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Irene, Sorry it took me so long to answer - I was watching for an email and just now noticed the link.  The The peach "material" looks like a bunch of threads - like crochet thread wrapped around. If I gently pull apart the threads, it looks like muslin underneath.  The stuffing feels like some kind of fiber as opposed to cotton or polyester. Something small and grainy and lightweight.  Here is another picture.

Answer
Hi Judy,
Thanks for the additional photo and for taking the time to look back over at the pincushion and provide me with more information.

Your cushion appears to be American - Shaker and it was obviously hand-made.  Although not in the best condition, it still has historical value rather than collectible value.

To read about the Shakers, follow this link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaker

Your pincushion dates to the late 1800's early 1900's.

I hope this helps.
Irene