What is a biscornu?

https://www.crazypatterns.net/de/items/225/Biscornu-quot;Pansy-Associations-quot;-Stick-und-N%C3%A4hanleitung

Is that some kind of pincushion?

In layman’s terms, I’d say that the word “biscornus” doesn’t generally have anything to do with a pincushion per se.
“Biscornus” is actually just a word for an object with multiple corners that’s sewn together in a specific way.
This one also has embroidery on it.
It may well be used as a pincushion.

But I’d be happy to be corrected if anyone knows more details about it.

Hi sundown,

I’m sorry I’m only just seeing this post now.

The term itself comes from French, which is also where the idea originated, and means something like “bizarre” or “misshapen.”

As muetzenkatze already mentioned, that has nothing to do with how it’s actually used. Many embroiderers or sewists like using it as a pincushion.... it’s simply a different kind and pretty to look at as well. I’ve also made some very small biscornus myself that are only 2.5 cm to 3 cm in size, and I use them as scissor fobs for my collection of small craft scissors, which love to hide on my sofa right in front of me :D

But they can also be used as little hanging decorations with an attached ribbon, for example made of beads, and a tassel in the window, as a mobile, or as decorations with suitable motifs for Easter or Christmas on a tree or bouquet.

So they’re very versatile....

I’m also happy to answer questions about things like this as quickly as possible under the relevant products :)

Creative regards

Nicole from NKS-Design