Genuine miniature samplers-not fragments of larger pieces or excerpts from full-sized samplers- are quite rare. The most common sort feature either monochromatic alphabetic and numeric tests, or even a simple, short, sentimental verse. The former type sometimes called “plain work,” usually originated in a working-class school setting where young girls learned the means of self-support.

Small samplers like this were occasionally bound into small volumes, and today are more often found plundered, individually, rather than in their original book format. The latter type of miniature was often a presentation piece. Girls and women gave each other gifts of their handwork- a meaningful sentiment then as well as now.

The antique miniature samplers that Scarlet Letter have reproduced demonstrate a variety of “functions” that are still useful today: as mementos, as gifts, even as learning exercises.

These samplers are recommended for beginning to intermediate level needleworkers.