Nicola tells us "Each year Hands Across the Sea Samplers publishes a sampler which we consider to be not only beautiful but outstandingly so and worthy to be crowned our Queen of the May.

Matilda’s sampler is without doubt a “bobby dazzler”; there is so much to delight the eye. She has been reproduced using the still vibrant colours from the front of her sampler.

Matilda showed great diligence and industry with her needle. The verse she chose for her sampler “The Lord my pasture shall prepare and feed me with a shepherd’s care” is the first verse of the hymn “The Good Shepherd” written by Joseph Addison.

The dominant motif in Matilda’s sampler is the magnificent Temple of Fame nestled between two fruiting trees and guarded by two red lions. The lions symbolise strength, courage, dignity, and pride. Two angels with trumpets signifying that they are the voice of God hover either side of the temple."

Stitch count is 364 W x 422 H.

Our suggested linens for Matilda’s sampler are Legacy Linen’s Victoria Sponge Cake in 30ct, Corn Tassel in 37ct, and Foxtail Millett in 45ct.

Matilda’s sampler has been reproduced using a palette of thirty-eight colours carefully matched to the colours found on the front of the sampler today. The model was stitched using Soie d’Alger from Au Ver a Soie. We have included below conversions for Soie 100.3 and DMC.

Please check the boxes above to add the chart, linen and threads to your order.