Victorian Motto Sampler Kit "Joy deals Comes In The Morning"

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Never count stitches again! Do it yourself satin stitch and needlepoint kit complete with instructions and pattern screen printed onto the paper. Complete your own victorian style deals motto sampler as the matriarchs of your family would have done without the eye strain and frustration of counting stitches!

This listing includes a kit comprised of: screen printed punch paper with your selected pattern (aprox 24"x12" edge to edge), a needle, DMC floss corresponding to the above colour scheme, gold foil backing, a how-to stitching guide, and motto specific colour guide with close-up pictures of the finished product.

A history of the art:

Paper embroidery was a form of fashionable Victorian "Fancy Work" used as a leisure time activity for all ages during the nineteenth century. Mottos were stitched in lavish colours in newly discovered variegated (or shaded) threads to give vibrancy to their earnest messages.

Most mottos were sold as kits, with the message being pre-stamped onto the paper. There were countless sayings, most of them Biblical, as the genuine sentiments of the era were influenced by Queen Victoria's ascent to the throne. Pious living, patriotism, and respectability were the desired conduct of every level of society in her day.

Also known as "door texts" these mottos were sized to fit over the door and if not secured properly were apt to come crashing down on unsuspecting entrants. Messages were thoughtfully selected for the rooms in which they were displayed. A text on industry and warmth may have been found in the kitchen while a motto on obedience or lobe and protection would be hung in a child's room. Guests were greeted with "Welcome," "God Bless Our Home" or other declarations of hospitality and family loyalty. Favorite hymns and scripture were spread throughout the home to teach the children virtues and to keep the occupants' hearts and minds turned toward God.

Mottos of the era could be worked in silk or wool, chenille or cotton, gold, silver, steel or coloured beads. Many were backed with a gold or silver shiny foil to accentuate the perforation of the paper and give a glittery effect. Some patterns were worked by little girls who never reached adulthood and though their stitchings were not excellent artistically, they were treasured by bereaved family members and lovingly preserved.

The fashion of paper embroidery phased out around 1910, but the enjoyment of the pastime is as delightful and the messages of the mottos ring as true today as they did then.