The Strange Sampler

PDF cross stitch chart - Design size: 113 stitches wide by 141 stitches high

Aged sampler reproduction stitched on 32 count linen from Fox and Rabbit in the colorway "Duxbury."

Alternate version with Macbeth verse stitched on 32 count linen from Fox and Rabbit in the colorway "Hogbristle."

Both versions have the same stitch count and will fit nicely in an 8x10 standard frame when stitched on 32 count linen/evenweave.

Floss used: 9 colors of DMC floss for each version

The models were stitched using two strands of floss over two on 32 count linen.

The Strange Sampler is a faithful reproduction of an antique sampler charted in two colorways. The aged colorway includes colors based on the front of the chart - these colors are more faded and muted due to damage from sunlight and time. The uh verse on the original sampler is not biblical - it comes from a poem published in 1877 by Isaac Watts called "Against Evil Company." The alternate "Macbeth" colorway uses colors pulled from the back of the sampler - these colors have been protected from the elements and are brighter and more vibrant. This is true to how the original stitcher would have intended their sampler to look. The brighter colorway includes a recharted verse featuring the famous quote from the Three Witches (The Weird Sisters) in Shakespeare's play Macbeth. I was inspired to chart a "spookier" verse for this sampler based on the unique name of the original stitcher (Isabella Strange) and the vibrant orange she used which felt reminiscent of Halloween. The sampler features traditional cross stitch and a small amount of over one stitching. No specialty stitches are required. This sampler could be completed on Aida for experienced stitchers, but I recommend linen or evenweave for more ease in stitching the over one words and motifs.

This PDF pattern listing includes a color version and a black and white version of the chart. BOTH colorways and verse options are included in the chart. This listing is not for an actual physical product. You will receive a PDF pattern to stitch your own sampler.