Martha Salter 1651

This is a reproduction of a band sampler in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Its formal design is representative of the very angular and regular designs favored during the reign of James I. The colors are subtle, the stitch variety great, resulting in a beautiful yet relatively simple design. Verses did not often appear on samplers until after 1650, making this sampler one of the earliest known examples with a verse:

Stitches used include cross, Montenegrin cross, double running, straight, back, and counted thread satin. The original sampler measures 17-1/2″x9″, while our reproduction is approximately 18-1/2″x9″, the slight difference in size the result of the original having been worked on an uneven weave, versus a modern evenweave linen.

Origin and date: 1651 England
Rated: Intermediate
Linen count and finished size: 35 count. 18-1/2″x9″
Stitches: Cross, Montenegrin cross, double running, straight, back, and counted thread satin
Source: Victoria & Albert Museum in London cross, petit point (cross over one) and backstitch. It is recommended for an intermediate level of skill. On 40-count linen, the reproduction will measure approximately 14-1/2″ x 19″, very close to the size of the original antique sampler (15″x 20″).