Mary Fowler 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.

My maiden name was Fowler, so I just had to make this sampler mine! It was stitched in 1725 and it was unusual in both shape and style for the period. It was worked on very fine linen with cotton and silk. My charted version of the design uses stranded cotton over two or sometimes over one fabric thread. A close-up section of the chart is provided as well as the printed chart so that you can see how to create this wonderfully fine work.

In your lovely JG Book Box, you will find:

• A large picture of Mary’s sampler
• The beautifully printed chart made up of 2 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 see my favourite, hear about my first auction experience, and find the most fabulous place to see samplers for yourself.