Tombo-dama Sewing Pins and Cypress Pincushion Necklace

2021.05.12

A gift set of Tombo-dama Sewing Pins and Cypress Pincushion Necklace.
This set includes a leather cord to enjoy the pincushion as a necklace right away!

Package Size

※All measurements are for reference. Please note in advance that the actual dimensions and weight of the product may slightly vary.

Tombo-dama Sewing Pins

These exquisite marking pins feature a tombo-dama glass bead on the head. Tombo-dama beads are a Japanese traditional craft, produced in a variety of colors and unique designs by master craftsmen. Tombo-dama literally means “dragonfly’s eye” because these beautiful glass beads resemble the mysterious eyes of dragonflies.

The glassmaking techniques used to craft the beads are a type of millefiori, or “thousand flowers,” and can be traced back to the Nara period (710-794 A.D.). Trade with Europe and Asia over the centuries also introduced many new techniques and designs to this traditional art. Glass bars are heated in the flame of a burner, carefully shaped and extruded, then attached to the pin.

Pins measure approximately 5mm in diameter at the head and are produced lovingly by hand at Kinari Glassworks in Osaka. Each pin is entirely unique with its own distinct charm, like a flower.

The durable steel-and-nickel pins are manufactured in Hiroshima, a city with a 300-year history of high-quality needle production. Rigorus quality control ensures that pins are of uniform thickness and length and pierce cloth with ease.

Set of assorted 3 sewing pins

Product Size

※All measurements are for reference. Please note in advance that the actual dimensions and weight of the product may slightly vary.

Handling Precautions

• The needle tip is sharp and dangerous, so be careful when handling lost needles.
• Due to the handmade nature of this product, the size and pattern may vary, but please enjoy the texture.
• Wipe off sweat and grease after use.
• The glass top of the sewing pin may come off if you pull too strong.
• Please note that using it for anything other than sewing may cause damage or injury.
• Keep out of reach of infants.

Cypress Pincushion

This charming pincushion is characterized by a compact, round shape, inspired by a nut in the forest.
Craftsmen at Nakauchi, a button manufacturer established in 1914 in Nara, carve the wooden base by hand with great skill.The fragrant wood is sourced from hinoki cypress from the Kii Mountains south of Osaka.
The fabric of the pincushion is a Banshu weave produced in the northern Harima region of Hyogo Prefecture. Banshu weaves are distinguished by their natural texture, rich colors, and smoothness to the touch. The SAITO store, from whom we source the cushion, strives to craft eco-friendly products and makes use of cloth remnants for these small pincushions so that waste is minimized.
Pins slide easily into the Cypress Pincushion and its stuffing is rust-resistant.
It can also be strung as a pendant to make a cute accessory or for easy portability.

Product Size

※All measurements are for reference. Please note in advance that the actual dimensions and weight of the product may slightly vary.

Handling Precautions

• Due to the characteristics of the fabric, the fabric may be punctured by thick needles.
• Please be careful that the needles do not get stuck in the pincushion.
• This product is for needle pricking only. Please do not use it for other purposes.
• The base is made of natural wood, so the color and grain of the wood may vary depending on the product.
• Please note that the product may crack or deform if it is placed in a high temperature or humid place.
• The wood may become sticky due to the cypress resin. Wipe it off with alcohol to remove the stickiness.
• The leather tag is made of genuine leather, so it may stretch a little. Getting wet with water or sweat may cause the color to fade or stain.
• Keep out of reach of infants.