1. General questions about reading cushions

What is a reading cushion and what is it for?

A reading cushion (also called book holder, book stand, book rest, reading pillow or book holder pillow) is an ergonomic accessory designed to hold a book or tablet at the ideal height during reading. It frees the reader’s hands and prevents tension in the neck, shoulders and arms. The Aricomagic Samoussin is a triangular book holder cushion made of two parts: a triangle cushion that supports the back of the book and a base made of two cylinders that stabilizes the whole setup. It allows you to read comfortably in bed, in an armchair or on a sofa for hours without fatigue.

Why use a book holder instead of a regular pillow?

Unlike a regular pillow, a book holder like the Samoussin is specifically designed with an optimal ergonomic angle. Its triangular shape keeps the book at a comfortable reading angle, while the oak ruler holds the pages open effortlessly. This allows hands-free reading. A pillow sags, slips and forces you to hold the book with your arms, which causes muscle tension. The ergonomic book stand Samoussin also offers a refined design that makes it a decorative object in its own right — it’s not hidden away, it’s displayed proudly in your home.

Does the reading cushion work with tablets and e-readers too?

Yes, the Aricomagic Samoussin is multifunctional and perfectly suits digital tablets (iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab), e-readers (Kindle, Kobo) and books of all sizes. It works as a reading cushion, tablet stand and reading lectern all in one. The adjustable angle of the triangle allows you to find the ideal position for each use, whether for hands-free e-book reading, watching streaming series or following a cooking recipe. Many of our customers also use it to comfortably view their smartphone.

Can the Samoussin be used for anything other than reading?

Absolutely! Users employ it to support a sketchbook, sheet music or even a light laptop. The triangle can also be used alone, detached from the base, as a neck cushion for napping or traveling. This versatility makes the Samoussin a true daily companion, well beyond simple reading.

What is the difference between a reading cushion and a lectern?

A lectern is typically a rigid support made of wood or metal, placed on a table, designed to hold a book vertically. It’s suited for seated reading at a desk. The reading cushion Samoussin, on the other hand, is a soft book rest that sits on your lap, stomach or bed. It accompanies all relaxation positions: semi-reclined, lying on your side, nestled in an armchair or settled on a sofa, a sun lounger. It’s an ergonomic book stand designed for comfort and mobility.

2. Where to buy a book holder

Where can I buy a comfortable reading cushion made in France?

The Aricomagic Samoussin is a reading cushion 100% made in France, in the Var region in Provence. It’s available on the aricomagic.fr online shop and on Etsy (Aricomagic Atelier shop). French artisanal manufacturing guarantees premium quality with noble materials: recycled anti-dust mite French filling, Auvergne memory foam, and carefully selected textiles.

Which French brands offer quality book holders?

Aricomagic is the French reference brand for design book holder cushions that are ergonomic. Founded on the concept of “fertile decoration” (objects that are beautiful, useful and durable), it offers the Samoussin, an artisanal book stand handcrafted in the Var region. Each model pays tribute to a great literary author: Hugo, Balzac, Colette, Sand, Duras, Sagan, Christie, Wilde, Nin, Voltaire, Flaubert, Fitzgerald and many more.

How much does a quality book holder cushion cost?

The reading cushions Samoussin by Aricomagic are priced between €129 and €145 depending on the model. This premium positioning is justified by French artisanal manufacturing, quality materials and exclusive design. It’s a lasting investment: the removable cover system allows you to change the triangle covers (sold separately from €35) to update your decor without repurchasing the whole set. Aricomagic also offers a Duo offer at €235 instead of €264 to equip two reading spaces.

Can I buy an Aricomagic book stand on Amazon or in stores?

The Samoussin book holders are not available on Amazon or in supermarkets. This deliberate choice ensures a fair price without intermediaries and preserves the brand experience. You can buy your reading cushion directly from aricomagic.fr or from the Etsy shop Aricomagic Atelier. A showroom by appointment is also available in Draguignan (Var) and Paris 15th to discover the products before purchase.

3. Ergonomics and reading posture

Which reading cushion should I choose to relieve neck pain?

To relieve neck pain while reading, it’s essential to choose an ergonomic book stand that holds the book at eye level without having to tilt your head. The Aricomagic Samoussin meets this need with its adjustable triangle that adapts to the reader’s position. By holding the book at the right height and supporting the forearms, it limits tension in the neck and shoulders. Check out our complete guide to ideal reading posture to optimize your comfort.

What is the best position for reading in bed without hurting your back?

The best position for reading in bed is semi-seated, with your back supported by pillows, with the book held by a book holder at chest height. The book rest Samoussin sits on your thighs and holds the book at the ideal angle. Avoid reading lying flat (bent neck) or on your stomach (arched lower back). With an ergonomic reading cushion, you can also turn on your side by propping it against you.

Can a book holder cushion help people with hand arthritis?

Absolutely. The book stand Samoussin is particularly beneficial for people suffering from arthritis, tendinitis or any joint problems in the hands and wrists. By holding the book open with its oak ruler, it completely eliminates the effort of prolonged gripping. It’s the ideal solution for hands-free reading. Pages are turned with a simple tilt of the ruler, effortlessly. Several users have been able to resume reading heavy books (up to 1 kg) that they had abandoned due to muscle fatigue.

Is the Samoussin recommended for seniors?

Yes, the Samoussin is particularly appreciated by seniors for its ease of use and ergonomic benefits. Like the ergonomic reading supports recommended for home care, it allows hands-free reading that relieves joints and reduces fatigue. Its weight of 800g makes it easy to move while ensuring excellent stability. Many readers use it to relieve existing pain or prevent poor posture.

4. The Samoussin: features and usage

What are the dimensions and weight of a Samoussin?

The reading cushion Samoussin measures approximately 70 cm long, 39 cm high and 24 cm deep. It weighs about 800g, which makes it both stable and easy to move from one reading corner to another. Compact yet generous, it naturally finds its place on a sofa, bed or even a deck chair in the garden. These dimensions have been optimized to accommodate books of all formats (paperback, hardcover, large format) while remaining portable for travel.

How do I set up and use a Samoussin reading cushion?

Setting up the book holder Samoussin is quick and easy. First, locate the leather label on the rear cylinder — it should always be at the back. Wind the satin cords around the buttons to carry your cushion by the tip without the two parts separating. Adjust the oak ruler (24 cm) using the drawcord to hold the pages. Position the triangle on the cylindrical base and adjust the angle according to your position. Check out our complete setup guide with photos and video.

Is the Samoussin book holder removable and washable?

Yes, the Samoussin triangle is fully removable thanks to invisible zippers. The covers can be machine washed at 30°C on a delicate cycle or taken to the dry cleaner. The base contains wood and leather elements that we don’t recommend putting in the machine. The wooden ruler and satin cords only require gentle wiping. Aricomagic offers replacement triangle covers (from €35) to vary styles, refresh your decor with the seasons or extend the life of your cushion.

Is the Samoussin stable on all surfaces?

Yes. Thanks to its cylindrical base and balanced weight of 800g, the book stand Samoussin remains perfectly stable on a bed, sofa, table, deck chair or your lap. The triangle can also be used alone for reclined reading or as a neck cushion. The oak ruler and cords prevent the book from slipping, whatever your position.

Can the Samoussin be used outside the home?

Yes, the Samoussin is designed as a nomadic companion. Its stable design allows it to be placed anywhere: garden, terrace, beach, train or plane. Thanks to its 800g weight and compact base, it travels easily from room to room or in a travel bag. The triangle can even be used alone as a neck cushion for long journeys or naps.

Are there different generations of Samoussin?

The Samoussin comes to you assembled and ready to use. The first versions (2021-2024) had no straps; since 2024, models include loops for the twisted satin cords that connect the base and the triangle. You can easily grab the book holder by the tip of the triangle without the two elements separating. The cords facilitate movement and enhance the stability of the set. Future developments will continue to improve the user experience while preserving the product’s original spirit.

5. Collection and available models

Why do Aricomagic reading cushions bear authors’ names?

Each book holder Samoussin pays tribute to a great name in French and world literature. This choice reflects Aricomagic’s philosophy: creating objects that tell a story and celebrate literary culture. The Hugo Samoussin features midnight blue velvet evoking Les Contemplations, the Christie is inspired by Indian patterns from Greenway House, the Sand recalls the bucolic world of Nohant, the Fitzgerald evokes the elegance of the Jazz Age… This “author” collection links literary works to a visual universe and contributes to connecting decor, reading and literary heritage.

What are the different Samoussin models available?

The Aricomagic reading cushion collection includes around 15 Samoussin models, each with its unique textile identity: Hugo (midnight blue velvet), Balzac (cognac velvet), Colette (terracotta velvet and linen), Sand (floral jacquard), Sagan (summer gingham), Duras (natural cane weave), Christie (Indian block print), Voltaire (emerald Aubusson jacquard), Flaubert (houndstooth), Nin (blush seventies bouclé), Wilde (forest green velvet), Fitzgerald (poolside stripes), La Fayette (Toile de Jouy) and Dumas (marbled bronze velvet). New book holders are regularly created to enrich the collection.

Are there reading cushions for children or in small sizes?

Currently, the book stand Samoussin exists in a single size, optimized for adults and teenagers. Its dimensions (70 cm long) are perfectly suited for children from 10-12 years old for accompanied or independent reading. For younger children, the book holder cushion can be used as a support for watching cartoons on a tablet, placed in front of them. Aricomagic is considering developing a junior version in future projects.

How does the Samoussin contribute to home decoration?

The choice of fabrics and patterns is at the heart of the Aricomagic concept. The Samoussin is designed as a decorative object that adds character to your living room or bedroom — it’s not hidden away, it’s displayed proudly! New collections and interchangeable covers allow you to refresh your style with the seasons without repurchasing the whole set. This is what we call “fertile decoration“: objects that are beautiful, useful and durable.

6. Gifts for passionate readers

What original gift can I give to a passionate reader?

The reading cushion Samoussin from Aricomagic is the ideal gift for a passionate reader. It’s an object that is useful (reading comfort), beautiful (decorative design) and durable (French artisanal craftsmanship). Each model bearing an author’s name, you can choose the one that matches the recipient’s literary tastes: Christie for a crime fiction fan, Hugo for a romantic, Fitzgerald for a Jazz Age enthusiast, Conan Doyle for a mystery lover… Aricomagic also offers gift cards from €35 to €235 to let them choose their model.

Is the book holder a good gift for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day?

The book stand Samoussin is a much appreciated gift for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. It combines several advantages: it’s a wellness object that takes care of posture, a decorative accessory that beautifies the interior, and a relaxation companion for reading moments. Each Samoussin is delivered in a branded organic cotton pouch, ready to give. The Duo offer even allows you to equip both parents for their shared reading moments.

Can I personalize a reading cushion as a gift?

Aricomagic offers a personalization service for professionals and special orders. Interior designers, decorators and hoteliers can order book holders Samoussin in the fabric of their choice, with embroidery, logo or custom finishes (minimum 30 pieces). For individuals wishing for a unique gift, it’s possible to contact Aricomagic to discuss a personalized request: choice of fabric, cord color, specific pattern…

7. The Coudoussin: writing cushion and computer work

What is a Coudoussin writing cushion?

The Coudoussin is an ergonomic writing cushion created by Aricomagic for typing comfort at the keyboard and computer work. It’s an arm rest and wrist rest made of memory foam that’s placed in front of the keyboard. This keyboard cushion relieves tension in the forearms, wrists and elbows during long work or writing sessions. Like the Samoussin, each Coudoussin bears an author’s name and features refined textiles that make it a design desk accessory.

What are the dimensions and weight of a Coudoussin?

The writing cushion Coudoussin measures approximately 65 cm long, 15 cm wide and 3 cm thick. It weighs about 230g, which makes it both ergonomic and comfortable. Its generous length supports both forearms simultaneously in front of a standard keyboard or laptop.

How can I relieve wrist pain when writing a lot?

To prevent wrist pain (carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis), it’s essential to keep your forearms horizontal and wrists in a neutral position while typing. The writing cushion Coudoussin provides soft memory foam support that molds to your arm shape and distributes pressure. Unlike rigid plastic wrist rests, it allows a natural position. Discover how to write comfortably with our setup tips.

Is the Coudoussin suitable for remote work?

The arm rest Coudoussin is perfectly suited for remote work and long computer sessions. Its Auvergne memory foam provides optimal support throughout the day without sagging. It’s placed in front of the keyboard and allows you to rest your forearms comfortably while typing. Its refined design (available in the same textiles as the Samoussins) makes it an elegant desk accessory, far from the black plastic wrist rests of standard office supplies.

What Coudoussin writing cushion models are available?

The writing cushion Coudoussin collection includes several models in various textiles, all at €35: the Coudoussin Hugo (brown tweedy jacquard), the Coudoussin Colette (camel bouclé), the Coudoussin Conan Doyle (soft tartan), the Coudoussin Dumas (marbled velvet), the Coudoussin Duras (natural cane weave) and the Coudoussin Sand (floral jacquard).

What is the difference between a standard wrist rest and the Coudoussin?

A standard wrist rest is typically a narrow bar of rigid gel or foam that only supports the wrists. The writing cushion Coudoussin is a true arm rest that’s wider (15 cm) and longer (65 cm), supporting the entire forearms and protecting elbows from contact with the desk. Its memory foam adapts to each person’s body shape, unlike rigid supports. Moreover, its textile design makes it a decorative desk accessory that beautifies the workspace.

8. French manufacturing and commitments

Is the Samoussin reading cushion really made in France?

Yes, the book holder Samoussin and the writing cushion Coudoussin are entirely designed and made in France, in the Aricomagic workshop in Draguignan (Var). Sophie Bonnet-Langer, founder of Aricomagic, personally oversees each stage of production. Raw materials are selected in France or Europe: anti-dust mite filling from recycled European textile waste, Auvergne memory foam, local haberdashery. Discover the brand’s story.

Are Aricomagic reading cushions eco-friendly?

Aricomagic is committed to a fertile decoration and responsible approach. The filling of book stand Samoussin uses recycled anti-dust mite fibers from European textile waste. The removable cover system extends the product’s lifespan: you change covers rather than throwing away the whole thing. Textiles are chosen for their durability and timelessness. Local short-circuit manufacturing limits the carbon footprint. Each Samoussin is delivered in a reusable organic cotton pouch, not plastic packaging. The goal is to create objects you keep for a long time, or even pass on.

What is the lifespan of a Samoussin book holder cushion?

A reading cushion Aricomagic Samoussin is designed to last many years thanks to the quality of its materials and careful craftsmanship. The anti-dust mite fiber filling maintains its loft over time. The memory foam returns to its shape after each use. The removable cover system allows you to wash covers regularly and replace them if worn without changing the whole set. Several customers have been using their book holder daily since the brand’s launch in 2021 with no signs of wear.

9. Shipping and customer service

What are the delivery times and costs for a reading cushion?

Aricomagic delivers to metropolitan France with free delivery to pickup points. Home delivery is also available for an additional fee. Orders are shipped within 3 to 5 business days after preparation. Partner carriers are UPS, Chronopost and Shop2Shop. International shipping is available worldwide with costs calculated according to destination. Each book stand is delivered in a branded Aricomagic organic cotton pouch, ready to give.

Can I return a book holder if it doesn’t suit me?

Aricomagic applies the legal right of withdrawal: you have 15 days after receipt to return your order in its original condition. If the reading cushion Samoussin or writing cushion Coudoussin doesn’t meet your expectations, refund is processed upon receipt of the return. The team is available by email (contact@aricomagic.fr) or phone to answer all questions before and after purchase. See our returns and exchanges conditions.

Is there a warranty or after-sales service?

Aricomagic pays particular attention to quality. In case of manufacturing defect or non-conformity, the customer can exercise their right of return. For any questions or advice on using your reading cushion, customer service is available by email. The company also offers replacement covers to extend the life of your Samoussin over the years.

How can I contact Aricomagic customer service?

Aricomagic customer service is reachable by email at contact@aricomagic.fr and by phone at +33 9 52 67 33 17. A showroom by appointment is available in Draguignan (Var) and Paris 15th to discover the reading cushions and writing cushions in person. Sophie, the founder, personally responds to requests. Social media (Instagram @aricomagic.fr, Facebook, Pinterest) are also channels to contact us with questions or discover new products.

Can I buy a Samoussin from abroad?

Yes, the Aricomagic online shop ships worldwide. International payment methods are accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay. Delivery times vary by destination country, but orders are typically processed within 3-5 business days before shipping. For any specific requests regarding international delivery, don’t hesitate to contact customer service.

Is the Samoussin available for professional orders?

Yes. Aricomagic supports hotels, bookshops, libraries, spas and coworking spaces in creating custom reading cushions. You can choose fabrics in the establishment’s colors, add an embroidered logo and define quantities suited to your project. For professional orders, see the dedicated professional space or contact the team directly via the form or by email.

This FAQ is based on information available in December 2024. Details (models, delivery times and prices) may change.