Sampler (England), early 17th century (CH 18697381)

The English word 'sampler' derives from the Latin 'exemplum', or the old French term 'essamplaire', meaning 'an example'. Before the introduction of printed designs, embroiderers and lacemakers needed a way to record and reference different designs, stitches and effects. The answer was to create a sampler – a personal reference work featuring patterns and elements that the owner may have learned or copied from others, to recreate again in new pieces. Such stitch and pattern collections may have been assembled in a number of cultures where decorative needlework was widely practised. Early examples rarely survive, but the quality of the oldest surviving samplers suggests they were made by experienced hands, as well as children, (in many cultures learning needlework was an important part of a young girl's education). The earliest in our collection were found in Egyptian burial grounds, and probably date from the 14th or 15th centuries.

• Sampler stitch hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Chain stitch stitches hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Plaited braid stitches hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Raised work embroidery hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Couching stitch hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Plaited braid stitch hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Couching stitch embroidery Stock Photos and Images - Alamy
• Silver stitches hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Silk with gold work hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
• Wool and silk on linen hi-res stock photography and images Alamy