A Punto Antico Biscornu Pincushion to Stitch

Punto Antico (antique stitch), a type of Italian drawn-thread work, is thought to have its origins in the Levant. The geometric shapes are said to be inspired by the Arab influence that dominated the island of Sicily for centuries. Numerous traces of this embroidery style are found throughout Italy depicted in paintings and portraits dating back to the fourteenth century. Today, Punto Antico is used in embroideries all over the Italian peninsula.

I incorporated the Punto Antico stitches in this biscornu (a French word that denotes an irregular shape) pincushion project. Interestingly, Punto Antico may be stitched either as a counted-thread technique or freestyle; here, the counted-thread technique is used. Punto Antico traditionally is worked in tone-on-tone coloration, although it’s fun to use the colored textiles and fibers we have today. The choice is up to you, but tone on tone is a great start as mistakes are hidden more easily.