Samplers3

18th century samplers at Pilgrim Hall Museum

		During the 18^th century, the shape of samplers changed as they became less long and narrow. The bands moved to the sides of the sampler and served as borders. Motifs now included alphabets, numerals and even whole scenes. Verses became an even more prominent element. Stitchery became simplified, there was a much heavier reliance on cross stitch.
Elizabeth Gouch sampler, 1738

As New England women taught their daughters how to embroider, distinct regional American styles developed. American colonies were often closer in touch with England than with each other, so these regional variations are noticeable. One characteristic shared by the American colonies, was a greater spontaneity and tolerance for their young daughters’ errors. Colonial samplers were also developing a more naturalistic style than the formal English samplers.

		Click HERE for Elizabeth Brewster & her sampler, early 1700s.

		Click HERE for Elizabeth Gouch & her sampler, 1738.

		Click HERE for Grace Cobb & her sampler, 1794.

Back to the 17th century

Forward to the 19th century