The History of Cross-Stitch
Cross-stitch, which is a form of embroidery, has been around for hundreds of years. The earliest embroidery sample that includes cross-stitch was found in an Egyptian tomb and dates between 600 and 700 C.E. Today many companies produce a wide variety of patterns and kits, which has helped spark a resurgence in crafting as a stress-relieving activity.
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Predecessor
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Blackwork, a geometric design in black on white linen fabric, is believed to be a precursor of modern cross-stitch. It was popular in England in the 1600s.
Early Uses
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Cross-stitch was first used to decorate household textiles like table linens and curtains.
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First Pattern Book
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The first cross-stitch pattern book was published in Germany in 1524. Early books were printed in black ink, leaving the color choices to the stitcher.
Samplers
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Samplers, or exemplars, designed to show off a young girl's sewing skills, popularized cross-stitch. The name comes from women stitching "samples" of their favorite stitches.
Development
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By the 1700s, samplers had become more complex, including intricate geometric and floral designs, fancy alphabets and Biblical or moral quotations.
Modern Designs
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Innovation in fabric and floss colorations after 1900 caused a decline in the traditional sampler in favor of more detailed patterns including landscapes, flowers and animals.
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References
- Photo Credit Kim Kenney
