Super Clever Mann Art Docents  Anju, Hiro and Lisa did this fine project with their Second Grade class.

© theartofmann.org, 2012.

© theartofmann.org, 2012.

© theartofmann.org, 2012.

Over a period of 2 weeks, the students created these stitch samplers. These are their first stitches! 

Embroidery Samplers

Miniature samplers, like this charming example from the 16th century, are fairly unusual. This type of simple sampler was undertaken by a little girl, usually younger than age ten. Possibly made at a “dame school,” its purpose was to help the child learn letters and numbers as well as basic embroidery skills. The motto would have been considered an appropriately modest and feminine sentiment.

Materials:

Linen cut to 4″ squares

Embroidery hoops (1 for each student)

Needles

Embroidery floss

Prep work:

cut the linen in to squares

stretch the squares into the hoops

sketch the stitches in pencil on to the fabric

Stitch techniques:  (the docents created this handout for each student to have, they also provided a list of links)

Links: