The Sampler

Description

It’s rather a generic title but in fact this sampler was directly inspired by an American sampler stitched by Alice Drinkwater, age 11, circa 1815, titled “The Sampler”, and formerly in the collection of The Scarlet Letter. The border of her sampler defied reproduction, but the verse was worked in petit point and could be charted. Stitches used in the sampler are cross, petit point, and French knots. The cartouche at the top center can be personalized with your own date of completion and name. On the pictured model, the Latin inscription translates as “This was made in the year 2013 by the hand and needle of…” On 35 count linen the finished sampler will measure approximately 14-1/2″ x 18″, and it is recommended for intermediate level stitchers.

THE SAMPLER

This sampler which first sppears in view,
When first begun cost many a tear:
The merit to my friends is due,
Who taught me the right course to steer.

The silken threads both long and fine
Did often break and make me sigh:
At crosses oft we do repine,
But still our hope’s in him, on high.

Oh! Heavenly Father bless my friends:
Oh bless them with peculiar care:
For I can ne’er make them amends;
Oh heavenly Father hear my prayer.

The thread of Life may soon decay,
The knot may slip, then all is o’er:
Oh may the needle ne’er give way
Until we reach the happy shore.