SOLD 4 Dutch-Themed Samplers * £15 €30 $55 Including Shipping

The first chart is for the wonderful sampler of 1663 now conserved by the Arnhem Open Air Museum - this rich combination of bands and spot motifs is so satisfying to work and the result is a heritage piece to pass down through the generations.

This second sampler, though British, draws inspiration from the loveliest Dutch samplers.

But look at it close-to and you will see why it is called Those Darn Birds - the entire sampler is worked in pattern darning - which is so simple and quick to work - you simply weave your silks through the cloth. The result is stunning and so different.

When I first visited Lonneke Trietsch some years ago in the Hague I saw this third charming house sampler with its two elaborate facing birds on her wall... 

Last but not least is one of the famous black samplers of Groningen from the Museum of Needlearts in Wedde - very easy to stitch and you will have a little beauty in no time at all!