Have you ever noticed that almost everyone who sews has a little red tomato pincushion? Our grandmothers, mothers, aunts—every sewing basket seems to have one. But why?
According to old folklore, tomatoes were seen as symbols of good luck and prosperity. When families moved into a new home, they’d place a tomato on the mantle to bring blessings. Since fresh tomatoes are seasonal, women began making them out of fabric and stuffing them with leaves and herbs.
At the same time, sewing needles were one of the most valuable tools in the home. So, the fabric “good luck tomato” became the perfect place to store and protect them—and that’s how the tomato pincushion was born.
Posted by Kimberly Wright
Whenever I see one, I think of my grandmother’s wrinkled hands, sewing with her bright red tomato beside her. It may not bring riches, but it sure brings back the sweetest memories. 🍅❤️