What Is an Antique Sampler

Samplers are a form of embroidery that evolved in the 17thC, used to demonstrate needlework skills. Most commonly, samplers are stitched by children, using silk or wool thread, onto a canvas ground. They often feature alphabets, numbers, verses and motifs.

Are antique samplers valuable?

On today’s antiques sampler market, American samplers are rare and command a higher value than their English counterparts. Condition is key to the value of any sampler. Samplers that are cut, re-stitched, stained or torn are not as valuable as those that are in good condition.

What were samplers used for?

Samplers are pieces of fabric worked to practice various embroidery stitches and motifs and to demonstrate mastery of these. In early America, they were not made for hobby or as a way to pass leisure time.