How To Make A Biscornu

Finish An Elegant Pincushion From Counted Thread Embroidery Projects

Mar 9, 2009

Cross Stitch Biscornu Embellished With Beads, L. Steward

Biscornu is an eight-sided pincushion, and a must-have to collectors of needlework smalls. Moreso, it can be use as a tree ornament by adding a hanger on one corner.

French stitchers are the pioneers of this wonderful and now so-famous elegant pincushion. The word biscornu is a French adjective meaning irregular in shape.

Biscornus are elegant, crooked eight-sided pincushions best suited for counted thread embroidery works like cross stitch, blackwork and hardanger. They can be done in quilting or patchwork as well but the finished product is not as symmetrical as counted thread. Ideal size is between three to four inches, but can be smaller or bigger if using as a fob or decorative pillow respectively. Please refer to photos below for completed products worked in cross stitch and hardanger.

Important Things To Consider In Making A Biscornu

One or two stitched pieces is/are needed. In most cases, stitchers stitch on the top piece only.
The backstitch borders must be square. It doesn't matter if the stitched design is symmetrical or not, provided each side has equal backstitch count.
The backstitched borders must be even number. If the design has odd stitch count, i.e. 35w x 35h stitches, simply add the same "odd number" of linen threads all around for backstitching. For example, add five linen threads all around on a 35w x 35h stitches design, then the backstitched border will be 40w x 40h stitches. Please take note though that this rule applies to designs stitched on linen or evenweave only, not on aida fabric.
The fabric count size of the top and bottom piece must be the same. Ideally, top and bottom fabric should be of the same material. But in reality, as long as the fabric count size is the same, it is alright. For example, if the top piece design is stitched on a 28 count white irish linen, the bottom piece (stitched or unstitched) can be 14 count aida fabric or 28 count monaco evenweave. However, please do remember that count size of different manufacturers varies. Therefore it is recommended to use one supplier only for the entire project.
Stranded cotton thread (i.e. 2 or 3 strands of DMC, Anchor, etc.) or Perle Cotton (one strand of size #8 or size #12) can be use for the backstitching and whipstitching, or better known as Lacing Method.

Materials Needed

one or two stitched pieces - for top and bottom
coordinating thread or floss - for lacing method
tapestry needle - for whipstitching
2 coordinating buttons or big beads - for tufting
hand-sewing or beading needle - for embellishing (optional)
embellishments, i.e. seed beads, fancy beads, 1/4" ribbon or trimmings, etc. (optional)

General Instruction And Assembly

Make sure that the top and bottom pieces have the size. Trim excess fabric giving you at least half inch allowance all around. Iron both pieces if necessary.
Using backstitch border as guide, miter corners then finger press toward the wrong side of the fabric. Do the same on both pieces.
Locate the center on one side of “bottom piece” then mark with pin. Refer to the "Biscornu Finishing Diagram" photo below.
Thread your tapestry needle with coordinating floss and knot the end, then anchor your thread at one corner of “top piece“. Refer to the "Biscornu Finishing Diagram" photo below.
Start whipstitching at corner of “top piece" (marked with black dot - point 1) and at center side of “bottom piece” marked with pin. Work from left to right following the arrow directions.
Leave the last side for stuffing, then continue whipstitching once it’s filled.
Once all the whipstitching is complete, secure your thread on the last stitch then bury the tail inside the biscornu.
Tuft the center with coordinating thread, making sure the biscornu will have dimples on both sides, then adorn with coordinating buttons or big beads.
Embellish the edge with seed beads, ruched ribbon or florettes for extra fling. This step is optional.
Congratulations!... the biscornu is now ready to hold your lovely pins and needles.

Be warn that making biscornu is very addictive, so prepare yourself for stitching more smalls afterwards. If you've been stitching for a long time and haven't tried to make a biscornu yet, you're missing an opportunity to own this wonderful needlework collectible piece. Moreso, they are great gift ideas all year round to family and friends.

The copyright of the article How To Make A Biscornu in Sewing/Needlework is owned by Lourdes Steward. Permission to republish How To Make A Biscornu in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.