By Merrily Beams
This “token of affection” sampler may be created for a wedding, an anniversary, a Valentine, or as a gift for a special friend. Counted cross-stitch lends itself to creativity, along with the opportunity to personalize your work; use the alphabet to personalize this sweet sampler.
Sampler with charts that can be downloaded below.
Visit pieceworkmagazine.com/basic-embroidery-stitches for illustrations of many common embroidery stitches.
Materials
Zweigart Belfast, 32-count 100% linen fabric, #3609/222/55 Cream, 15 x 15 inches (38.1 x 38.1 cm), 1 piece
DMC Embroidery Floss (Article 117), 100% cotton 6-strand thread, 8.7 yards (8 m)/skein, 1 skein each of the colors listed in the key
John James Needle, tapestry size 26
Stretch bars, 14 x 14 inches (35.6 x 35.6 cm)
Finished Size: 7 x 9 inches (17.8 x 22.9 cm)
Download the Sampler Chart and Alphabet/Number Chart here:
Sampler Chart 
(602 KB)
Alphabet and Numbers (358 KB)
Instructions
Notes : Each square on the chart equals two threads of linen. Work cross-stitches over two threads of linen. Work the date and eyes in backstitch. Work all stitches with one strand of thread.
Mount the fabric in the frame. Measure 3 inches (7.6 cm) down and 3 inches (7.6 cm) in from the left corner of the fabric and mark with a pin. Beginning at the top left corner of the chart and the marked spot on the fabric, stitch the sampler referring to the chart for thread color and placement. Remove the fabric from the frame. Frame as desired.
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Cross Stitch |
Backstitch |
Merrily Beams lives in Santa Rosa, California. Her love of needlework blossomed while living in England in the 1970s and meeting an antique dealer who specialized in samplers. Over the years, the relationship with the dealer developed into a lifelong friendship and a collection of antique samplers that provide daily pleasure and inspiration.