Think of samplers as an old form of data storage; long before pattern books came into existence, samplers were circulated as a means of recording and exchanging patterns and techniques, and antique specimens can be found at markets or online. But what if you want something a little more modern, or want to develop some needlework chops and make your own? When a fan asked Jenny at Sublime Stitching if she has a ready-to-stitch sampler pattern, she had to think a second before answering, "do I ever."

Order any Sublime Stitching alphabet sheet and instead of forming words, leave the sheet intact and transfer the whole thing onto fabric. Demi towels are a good size for samplers and fit in a standard 11x14" frame. Choose from the old English Olde Alphabet, Tattoo Alphabet, mixed typeface Epic Alphabet (pictured above), or bang your crafty head with the Metal Alphabet. Iron on transfers are $5 and PDFs are $3.50 from Sublime Stitching. Learn more about making an alphabet sampler from Jenny at the Sublime Stitching blog.

(Image: Sublime Stitching)