Techniques:

Samplers (Hand Embroidery)
For most sampler assignments, I use cross stitch and/or satin stitch. However, there are also many other decorative stitches that are used to create texture or for decoration.

Cross stitch is made with stitched x's. The design is planned out on a grid and therefore has a somewhat digitalized effect. Curved letterforms, like "S" and "O," end up looking a bit "jagged." However, this can create an old-fashioned, nostalgic effect. I usually use Aida fabric which has a grid-like texture that is excellent for cross stitch. I keep many colors of Aida on hand including white, ecru, tan, yellow, pink, blue, etc. Cross stitch is especially good for borders and lettering. For examples of cross stitch, click on the Samplers button below to see "Home Sweet Home Sampler" (101) and "The Stars Fell on Henrietta" (110) (seen below).

Satin Stitch Satin Stitch is a series of long or short straight stitches that are used for filling in an area. The stitches are positioned right next to each other and the sheen of the thread creates a "satiny" effect. For examples of satin stitch,
click on the Samplers button below to see "They've Invested in Dreyfus" (102) and "Use It Up, Wear It Out" (104) (seen below).

Combining Stitches In many projects, I use both cross stitch and satin stitch techniques in the same project. I use cross stitch for the border and satin stitch for the pictorial area. For examples of cross stitch/satin stitch combinations, click on the Samplers button below to see "To America With Love" (106) (seen below) and "Jack and Jill" (108).

Other Decorative Stitches are sometimes made with a heavier thread and are used for borders and edges. For an example of decorative stitches, click on the Stitched Illustrations button below to see "Fisher Price Quilt" (137) (seen below). "Loan Sweet Loan" (203) is another example which can be seen by clicking on the Samplers button below.