Historic Sampler Charts & Original Cross Stitch Designs

The thread that bridges historic needlework with contemporary needle-art

Original Designs

These are my own original sampler designs. Many will have Art Deco influences and employ a variety of stitches, not only cross-stitch.

Hi, so glad you are here!

Welcome to my little corner of the internet. I am Birgit, maker at the The Wishing Thorn. Grab a cup of Tea and stay a while. There are many patterns to browse much to read about some of our lovely talented ladies from the past. If you ever need to get a hold of me for pattern help of with new ideas just email me at birgit@thewishingthorn.com

I cannot count my day complete
'Til needle, thread and fabric meet.

Have a magnificent day

Read about Harriet's trip from England to America

Minature Sampler Charts

These are the tiny versions of the large and elaborate samplers. They are available as instant download PDFs or Paper charts. Make sure you add the correct type to your cart. 😍
Jnae Jones 1832 Reproduction Sampler

Why I do what I do

Jane Jones 1832

These samplers provide contemporary viewers rare insights into the past. They tell a story about their life. Their daily life, matters of importance and beliefs. If you would like to discover their past, you may want to check the blog for some of the completed histories at this time.

Bringing these young girls' needlework and histories to you to stitch is an honor. Seeing a beautiful sampler like Jane's (to the left) most likely embroidered at a very young age, in such poor condition breaks my heart. The love and time to cross-stitch this, and now almost destroyed.

I am so grateful to my ancestors that started me on this path with my great grandmother's sampler (Olga Spindler you’ll find her in the sampler section) All the samplers in my collection are like my “daughters” – they are cherished. Knowing you share the same love for them brings such joy!

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About My Charts