When I was eight years old, my mother put in my hands a sampler to embroider and explained how to stitch. I remember she also told me to use a hoop and that the fabric should be taut enough for a penny to bounce off it. Below is that sampler. It was like painting a canvas. I was enchanted and haven’t put needle and thread away since. I haven't used a "sampler" or kit in decades. Now, I sketch my own designs, sometimes embroider on stamped or painted fabric, or I'm inspired b