Catherine Archer Sampler Study Box

Studying old embroideries really puts you in the shoes of the stitcher. I have always been fascinated by samplers and am always a bit overwhelmed by the thought that the stitchers were so young. I thought you might enjoy studying samplers too, so I have put together a small selection of charts, histories, and luscious photos of favourites from my own collection. Each one is a little piece of history you can recreate for yourself.

By now I’m sure you’ll know that this sampler is a real favourite of mine. Catherine stitched this sampler in about 1865 and is one of many hundreds of so-called ‘Bristol’ or ‘Müller Samplers’.

Catherine worked her sampler on ecru non-evenweave linen in one strand of red thread. The design was worked over one thread of the fabric and the completed sampler only measures 10 x 11in (25.5 x 28cm). This is even more amazing when you consider that Catherine had no electric light or magnifier. You are free to stitch your recreation on the fabric of your choice, so it will be larger – and somewhat easier on the eye.

In your lovely JG Book Box, you will find:

• A large picture of your sampler
• The beautifully printed chart made up of 6 x A3 sheets
• A copy of my book Stitching your own little piece of history
• A gold-plated needle
• Faux-ivory thread holder with two shades of thread for an optional folded hem

If you have time to let me wax lyrical about samplers some more, you might like to learn more about my Catherine Archer Sampler, hear about my first auction experience, and find the most fabulous place to see samplers for yourself.