Getting Started
The band sampler index is the easiest way to find each band for this sampler.
As with any project of this nature you will need to evaluate your skills and decide whether or not this is something you have the time and patience to attempt. I would recommend that you be able to stitch Satin Stitches before you begin this project. If you would like to learn what is presented here for this sampler then try it on a doodle cloth first. Experienced stitchers use doodle cloths to try unfamiliar stitches or techniques and to decide if they like the results or the colors used.
You also could use the doodle cloth to see if the new technique you want to try is explained in such a way that you can do it. Or you will need to go to your library or the internet or needlework shop to see if there are different explanations of the technique. Frankly, this is how my stitching library got started. But that is another story for another time.
You could choose not to do some of the techniques presented here and end with a shorter sampler. There is nothing wrong with that decision and you will still have a lovely piece of work. Or maybe you could try something else you have seen in a magazine or book instead of one or two of the techniques presented here.
You can use any material you would like or favor but it will have to be wide enough to hold 80 stitches over two fabric threads for the width plus an edge of one inch on each side. My fabric for the sampler is 25 inches long on 32 count creme Belfast Linen. You will need to add extra fabric at top and sides of the design to fit your hoop or stitching frame. Usually three inches is recommended for the top, bottom and each side. But I generally need more width if I am using the hoop.
For this project I used a small lap frame. I did not prepare the edges of the material because it is on a frame. I did cut off the selvage edges of the fabric as these can seriously distort the stitches and the finished sampler. I will finish the edge of the bell pull and mount the sampler on another piece of fabric and hang it as a bell pull or lay it on a surface for display. That technique will be discussed on this website too.
I used Anchor cotton floss, color 142, DMC 312 is a good choice too and DMC Ecru or color 712 perle cotton size 8 and size 12, and some perle cotton, color 644, size 12.
To begin the sampler take a ruler or measuring tape and measure your fabric from side to side and mark the center with a contrasting color of thread. A simple, loose knot that is easily cut and removed is best for the start of the contrasting thread.
The reindeer is centered on its chart, but the center is not marked. The grid is marked off in 10 square sections. A square on this chart is equal to one Cross Stitch over two fabric threads on even weave fabric. This can vary from chart to chart so be sure to read the instructions.
You will want to baste a thread down the left and right side of your fabric to mark the edges. This will create a nice crisp, straight edge that you will use to start and end your stitches inside the marking lines. And sometimes you will have to start one or two threads in or out of these marking lines so the technique or stitch will look centered. A basting thread down the center of the band would also be very helpful as I start my centered bands there and work out to each edge.
To start the sampler fold the fabric in half length wise and count out from the center of the fabric 40 stitches, 80 fabric threads on the right and baste on the right side of the linen thread. Do the same for the left side except begin to baste on the left side of the 80th thread. The sampler is 80 stitches wide or 160 threads wide on even weave or linen weave. Start the reindeer chart in the center of the fabric at the top of the of the fabric about three inches from the top edge. Remove the marking thread as your stitching approaches it. It can be difficult to remove if it is sewn up in your sampler's stitches. You will also have to stop and baste these marking lines further down the sampler as your work proceeds. ©2000, Linda Fontenot, www.AmericanFolkArts.com and www.OverTheMoonDesigns.com Band Sampler