History & culture

A mechanical device that forms stitches in fabric, radically speeding up clothing production; workable models emerged in the 1830s-1850s and made both industrial and home sewing far faster than hand stitching.

A slender pointed tool with an eye for thread, made from bone or ivory in prehistoric times; mass production of steel needles began in England during the 18th century.

A slender metal fastener used to hold fabric layers in place before stitching; mass-produced brass pins from the 1830s replaced costly handmade ones and became a household essential.