We believe that this traditional English sampler was stitched by Eliza “as the first efforts of a youthful hand”, in the first half of the 19th century, as part of her education. The sampler shows aptitude for needlework and her stitching is precise. The sampler was executed in fine silks which some 200 hundred years later have retained their vibrancy. Regrettably the sampler yields no further insights into Eliza and it is only against a background of the period in which she lived that we can get a “glimpse” of what life was like for her and other Victorian women. It takes a considerable leap of the imagination for a 21st century woman to realise what her life would have been like had she been born in Eliza’s time and walked in her footsteps.
The stitches used are cross stitch over 1 and 2 threads, a handful of satin stitches and Algerian eyelets. The sampler is suitable for all level of abilities.
Hands Across the Sea Samplers wish you many hours of enjoyment stitching this beautiful sampler. Whilst doing so we hope that you remember the original creator ~ Eliza Knight.
Stitch Guide
The stitches used are cross stitch over 1 and 2 threads, a handful of satin stitches and Algerian eyelets. The sampler is suitable for all level of abilities.
Cross Stitch ~ is the most popular stitch in counted needlework. When working Cross Stitch the top stitch should always lie in the same direction for a neat and uniform finish. Traditionally worked as a complete stitch before passing to the next, the stitch can also be worked in lines, for example, by bringing your needle up at bottom left and down at top right then moving to the next stitch and repeating throughout the line. At the end of the line reverse direction and cross each stitch made on the first journey.
Elizabeth Weston worked her cross stitches over one and two threads.
Satin Stitch ~ can be worked horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Straight stitches should be laid side by side so that no ground fabric shows through. The art of satin stitches lies in making the stitches lie evenly and close together. Always stitch in the same direction. Use one thread and make repeated passes to achieve the desired coverage. To ensure a smooth glossy surface work with short lengths of thread to reduce fraying. Discard thread that has been unpicked.
Algerian eyelet ~ There is one stitch laid to every thread so when stitched over 2 threads there are 8 stitches laid to create an eyelet.
Eliza applied tension to open the centre hole of each eyelet. Do not tug on the thread using your needle as your thread will soon break. Instead apply pressure by pulling on the thread close to the stitch. Even tension should be applied so each individual stitch sits well within the eyelet.
Hands Across the Sea Samplers are on hand to help those stitching our charts. If you need assistance or have any questions we can be reached via email, address shown below, or the contact page on our website. Our website has stitching tutorials which can be found in the “sewing basket/tools” section.
