The spelling of the word "pinking" may seem confusing to some due to the inclusion of the letter "k". However, the IPA phonetic transcription of the word sheds light on its spelling. "Pinking" is pronounced /ˈpɪŋkɪŋ/, with the "k" being an important sound at the end of the word. This is because "pinking" refers to a zigzag edge pattern cut into fabric with special pinking shears. Therefore, the "k" at the end represents the sharp and precise cut that the tool produces.
Pinking refers to a process or technique used to create decorative or finished edges on fabric or paper. The term originated from the traditional tool called a pinking shears, which is a specialized pair of scissors with a serrated or zigzag blade. When pinking fabric or paper, the pinking shears are used to cut small V-shaped notches along the edge, resulting in a decorative pattern.
Pinking serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. The zigzag pattern created by pinking helps to prevent fraying or unraveling of the fabric by minimizing loose threads. This is particularly useful for fabrics that tend to fray easily, such as woven or loosely woven materials. Additionally, pinking can add a decorative touch to the edges of textiles or paper, giving them a unique and finished look.
Traditionally, pinking was commonly used in sewing and crafting projects like garment construction, quilting, or making decorative edges on fabric or paper crafts. However, with the advent of various cutting tools and techniques, the pinking process is not as ubiquitous as it once was. It has been somewhat replaced by alternate methods like using rotary cutters, sergers, or different decorative edge techniques.
Overall, pinking refers to the practice of cutting or creating zigzag edges on fabric or paper using pinking shears or other tools, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes in various sewing, crafting, or artistic projects.
The word "pinking" has two distinct etymological origins and meanings:
1. As a verb: The verb "to pink" means to cut or trim the edges of fabric with a zigzag pattern, often with pinking shears, a type of scissor. This method of cutting helps to prevent fraying. The etymology of this usage dates back to the late 14th century when "pinken" in Middle English meant "to decorate with a perforated or punched pattern". The origin of this term is uncertain, but it may have derived from the Dutch word "pinken" or "pinkelen", meaning "to prick" or "to peck".
2. As a noun: In the context of color, the noun "pinking" refers to a pale shade of pink, similar to the color of the flowers of the plant named "pink" (Dianthus).