A collection of 26 new sampler designs, one for each letter of the alphabet, ranging from sophisticated designs to more traditional ideas. There are designs for every level of skill with easy to follow instructions, graphs indicating every stitch and a list of specific materials.

A sampler is a project made from a "sampling" of different stitches or different motifs. Once the learning tool that helped generations of girls master basic needlework skills, this traditional project is still a great way to learn and practice embroidery skills—as well as a creative way to add color to a room or a fabric item. Covers samplers in several different styles: cross-stitch, counted thread, surface, and freestyle embroidery Creative uses for sampler art beyond the basic wall hanging: gift bags, ornaments, scarves, tote bags, and more Includes a how-to section with step-by-step instructions for basic embroidery stitches and sewing skills 16 projects for decorative sampler designs plus creative variations

"American classrooms have gone largely unrecorded, these astonishing embroideries which are usually signed, dated, and even sometimes inscribed with the names of the towns in which they were worked and the names of the embroiderers' teachers serve as historic documents, attesting to the existence of colonial education for women. There is a story behind each of the nearly eighty samplers illustrated in this book"--Insleaves.

Express your creativity--and your sentiments--with these popular Cross Stitch designs by Lori Markovic. Whether you're looking for the right words to thank a friend, brighten a family member's day, or remind yourself and others that "nice matters," you can't go wrong with these pleasing patterns. Also included are traditional verses to decorate a nursery or declare your love. Why not treat yourself with a sampler that echoes the sweet simplicity of an earlier era? All eight designs are perfect to stitch for gifts, for your home, or just for fun! Designs include By Her Hand, Mares Eat Oats, The Tie that Binds, My Friend, Roses Are Red, Nice Matters, My Sunshine, and Merry Sunshine. Each was cross stitched over two fabric threads on linen.

Artwork by Pamela Parmal.

Contains many illustrated alphabets for themes such as baby, flowers, hearts, Art Deco, dinosaurs, holidays, and more.

Containing unique reproductions of samplers and smalls from private collectors and museum collections, this DVD edition features one-of-a-kind antique needlework projects from the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, as well as antique-inspired designs. Also featured are well-researched articles profiling sampler makers, sampler-producing schools, needlework tools, museums and the various historical events that have shaped needlework. Some of the articles and projects cannot be found anywhere else, making this DVD essential to any collection. The DVD incudes full-color photography, easy-to-read charts and complete instructions.