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

Learn how to quilt while creating a sleek, stylish, contemporary sample quilt! A time-honored way to learn how to quilt is to make a sampler quilt. Each block or part of the quilt addresses a technique every quilter should have at their disposal. Traditionally, these quilts have had an even number of same-sized blocks framed by sashings and cornerstones. Not anymore! Quilt teacher Marianne Hatton has compiled her experiences guiding beginning students into an all-in-one technique, design, and pattern book. Create unique sampler quilts with a contemporary flair using her Grid Map technique while learning how to work with blocks of varying sizes. Monochromatic examples teach readers the importance of value and contrast without color getting in the way. Detailed instructions teach the basics of quiltmaking from straight to curved to set-in seams, appliqué, borders, and quilting. Color photographs illustrate techniques for hand or machine stitchers and a gallery of design possibilities.

Indulge your passion for color and fabric with a smorgasbord of blocks to use in a quilt that's a visual feast. The fun begins with more than 100 beautiful quilt blocks that all finish at 6" square, making them perfect for using scraps and for easy mixing and matching. Whether you prefer traditional or modern, you'll find so much to love in the varied assortment of block designs. Susan Ache (you may know her as @yardgrl60 on Instagram) shares 50 expert tips throughout, plus step-by-step instructions for making half-square triangles, flying geese, stitch-and-flip corners, and more. Once your tantalizing blocks are stitched, arranging them in the stunning sampler quilt is sheer pleasure!

Designer Kathleen Tracy is back with more delightful little quilts! This time she's gathered a treasury of 4" blocks reminiscent of those sewn by schoolgirls during the nineteenth century. Make all 72 timeless blocks and combine them in a sampler quilt or select a few favorites to use in any of six other charming quilts. Quick to stitch and perfect for reproduction-fabric scraps, the blocks are easy to make and you can complete several in one sitting or complete a small quilt in a weekend. Kathy includes plenty of tips for sewing small blocks, and her simple cutting instructions and clear piecing diagrams will help you succeed as you stitch each pint-sized treat.

This unique collection of 23 fabulous samplers is sure to keep crafters stitching throughout the year. Projects include samplers for birth congratulations, weddings, home and garden, as well as smaller projects such as gift tags, trinket boxes and mini pictures. Every design is accompanied by a color chart and clear instructions, along with finished color photographs that are sure to inspire the creative stitcher.