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A needlework sampler is a piece of embroidery or cross-stitching produced as a 'specimen of achievement', [1] demonstration or a test of skill in needlework. [ 2 ] [ 3 ] It often includes the alphabet, figures, motifs, decorative borders and sometimes the name of the person who embroidered it and the date.
Cross-stitch sampler, Germany Cross stitching using a hoop and showing use of enamel needle minder. Cross-stitch is a form of sewing and a popular form of counted-thread embroidery in which X-shaped stitches (called cross stitches) in a tiled, raster-like pattern are used to form a picture.
Samples of Aida cloth with enlargement inset. Aida cloth (sometimes called Java canvas [1]) is an open, even-weave fabric traditionally used for cross-stitch embroidery.This cotton fabric has a natural mesh that facilitates cross-stitching and enough natural stiffness that the crafter does not need to use an embroidery hoop.
The embroidery, practiced normally by women is generally done on fabrics of cotton, in the form of a net using cotton or silk threads. In certain patterns, it is also crafted over silk and satin. The types of stitches adopted are “square chain, double buttonhole, pattern darning, running stitch, satin and straight stitches”.
Examples include: Backstitch; Overcast stitch; Cross stitch; Buttonhole or blanket stitch; Chain stitch; Knot stitch; These stitches and their variations are named according to the position of the needle and direction of sewing (running stitch, backstitch), the form or shape of the stitch (chain stitch, feather stitch) or the purpose of the stitch (tailor's tack, hem stitch).
The colourful patterns and designs that are embroidered resulted in the name "Nakshi Kantha," [6] which was derived from the Bengali word "naksha," referring to artistic patterns. [7] Early kanthas had a white background accented with red, blue, and black embroidery; later, yellow, green, pink, and other colours were also included.
The stitching on the cloth gives it a slightly wrinkled, wavy effect. Contemporary kantha is applied to a wider range of garments such as sarees, dupatta, shirts for men and women, bedding and other furnishing fabrics, mostly using cotton and silk. Modern Kantha-stitch craft industry involves a very complex multi-staged production model. [6]
Chain stitch – hand or machine stitch for seams or decoration; Cross-stitch – usually used for decoration, but may also be used for seams; Catch stitch (also 'flat' and 'blind' -catch stitch) – flat looped stitch used in hemming; Darning stitch – for repairing holes or worn areas in fabric or knitting