This bold sampler with its deep jewel-like colours was designed after an equally brilliant Scottish band of the mid-18th century. The original was worked with fine, bright, unfaded wool threads on a homespun linen ground. It is rare to see such an unusual illuminated alphabet, and coupled with the solid arcaded daisy border and the eyelet stitched scallops and shimmering flamestitch band below, it makes an impressive statement. It is worked in a colour scheme often seen on Scottish samplers; strong reds and greens.

Origin and date: Scottish mid-18th century

Linen count and finished size: 30-count unbleached, 9-1/2"x19". Kit contains fabric, silk or cotton thread, needle and instructions.

Stitches: Cross, double running, and eyelet, and Hungarian flamestitch.

Source: Collection of The Scarlet Letter