Samplers document the history of embroidery, its teaching and practice. In their earliest forms, they were put togetheras personal reference works for embroiderers; their trials of patterns and stitches were records of particular effects that could be recreated again and served as useful tools to instruct girls learning needlework. Later in the seventeenth century they became a method of measuring and recording the achievements of their creators and many samplers were displayed like paintings or prints. Samplers draws on the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection of over 700 examples of embroidered samplers dating from the fourteenth or fifteenth century up to the present day, providing a historical overview of this popular needlework art. Detailed photography highlights the creativity and skill used to create these exquisite samplers, with details of individual motifs shown alongside full colour photographs of complete pieces. Line drawings are used to explain the stitch types and techniques. International in scope, this book reveals the wealth of historical detail contained in these objects and will provide inspiration for designers and embroiderers. 'This is a lovely book, a pleasure to own and, for anyone interested in samplers, essential.' Textile History 'Stunning...presents a gallery of examples of this popular needlework art.' Woman's World 'Clearly explained and well illustrated...a must for all passionate sampler enthusiasts.' Hali
