Translation guide
A small cushion used to hold sewing pins and needles. In Japanese, the most common term is 針山 (はりやま), literally 'needle mountain'. Other terms exist for specific shapes or traditional styles.
A small cushion for holding pins and needles, typically used in sewing.
The most common and general term for a pincushion. Literally 'needle mountain', referring to the domed shape.
Stick a needle into the pincushion.
This pincushion was handmade by my grandmother.
Another common term, literally 'needle stabber'. Often used interchangeably with 針山, but can refer to any object used to hold needles, not necessarily cushion-shaped.
I'm looking for a pincushion.
Literally 'needle stand'. Refers to a pincushion that stands upright, often with a base. Less common than 針山.
There is a pincushion on the desk.
A specific type of pincushion used in traditional Japanese sewing, often with a weighted base and decorative elements.
A traditional sewing box that often includes a built-in pincushion. The term can refer to the whole box or specifically the pincushion part.
My mother's sewing box contains an old pincushion.
A pincushion decorated with tsumami zaiku (fabric flower craft). Often used as a decorative item.
The tsumami-zaiku pincushion is beautiful, isn't it?
For everyday use, 針山 (はりやま) is the safest choice. 針刺し (はりさし) is also widely understood. Use 針立て (はりたて) only when referring to a standing pincushion.