Christmas Sampler

Release date: February, 1995

Stitch count: 152H x 124W
Model stitched on: 25 count antique white Brittany® from Zweigart®
Model size: 12.125" x 9.875"

Chart: computer generated
Leaflet: not available
Kit: not available
Downloadable chart: available.

Available via PatternsOnLine.com ONLY.

©Leisure Arts, Inc. P.O. Box 55595, Little Rock, AR 72215

Description: A small non-traditional Christmas sampler which features cross stitch, specialty stitches, cutwork bands and beads. A green and red garland accented with metallic trim is complimented by whitework-style specialty stitches reminiscent of snowflakes. An over-one script-style alphabet in green with touches of red and gold is bordered by more specialty stitch blocks. The focal point of the sampler is an old-fashioned winter scene of a horse-drawn sleigh carrying a passenger and a freshly cut evergreen. The sampler may be personalized with initials and date.

Background Information: This design was a big challenge for me because it had to be kept small. I also wanted to do a design that would be more versatile than one that was strictly for the Christmas season. The image of a horse-drawn sleigh is a very popular one; it is comforting and evokes nostalgic feelings of "simpler days gone by" for many people. That "old-fashioned" feel seemed to be best emphasized by the use of a script alphabet. Whitework lends itself well to the geometric depiction of snowflakes and frost patterns; hence its incorporation into the design along with lacy cutwork used as dividing bands. Finally, I added beads and a bit of metallic cord for a festive touch. This design won a Golden Needle Award in 1996.

Stitching Comments: This design is an excellent design to try to get an idea of what my larger designs are like. It has a little of everything! Each section of this piece was designed to be interesting to stitch, and the sampler is small enough to provide if not instant, then "fairly fast" gratification for the novice as well as the more advanced stitcher.

Specialty Stitches: square and diamond eyelets, diagonal and vertical satin, chain, herringbone, lazy daisy, hemstitch

Important Tips: Organizing Floss, Specialty Stitches, Miscellaneous Tips

Christmas Sampler Floss List

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