A needlework sampler is a piece of embroidery or cross-stitching produced as a 'specimen of achievement', demonstration or a test of skill in needlework. It often includes the alphabet, figures, motifs, decorative borders and sometimes the name of the person who embroidered it and the date. The word sampler is derived from the Latin exemplum, which means 'example'.
An American sampler: "Margaret Barnholt her sampler done in the twelth [sic] year of her age 1831".
English band sampler featuring 'boxers', c. 1650
Cross-stitch alphabet sampler worked by Elizabeth Laidman, 1760
'Biblical' sampler by Elizabeth Ross dated 1786
Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric or other materials using a needle to stitch thread or yarn. Embroidery may also incorporate other materials such as pearls, beads, quills, and sequins. In modern days, embroidery is usually seen on hats, clothing, blankets, and handbags. Embroidery is available in a wide variety of thread or yarn colour. It is often used to personalize gifts or clothing items.
Embroidery sampler by Alice Maywood, 1826
Laid threads, a surface technique in wool on linen. The Bayeux Tapestry, 11th century
Detail of embroidered silk gauze ritual garment. Rows of even, round chain stitch used for outline and color. 4th century BC, Zhou tomb at Mashan, Hubei, China.
A pair of Chinese shoes for bound 'lily' feet
![An American sampler: "Margaret Barnholt her sampler done in the twelth [sic] year of her age 1831".](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7b/Sampler_%28USA%29%2C_1831_%28CH_18564023%29.jpg/600px-Sampler_%28USA%29%2C_1831_%28CH_18564023%29.jpg)
