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.
針山に針を刺す。
Stick a needle into the pincushion.
この針山は祖母の手作りです。
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.
針刺しを探しています。
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.
机の上に針立てがあります。
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.
母の針箱には古い針山が入っている。
My mother's sewing box contains an old pincushion.
A pincushion decorated with tsumami zaiku (fabric flower craft). Often used as a decorative item.
つまみ細工の針山は美しいですね。
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.