Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Vintage Stitched Mottos





I love vintage cross stitch mottos and samplers and have always collected them. In this month's Country Home magazine there is an article about collecting these pieces and what to look for. As the article states, the pieces that are still in good condition, unusual patterns and nice crisp colors are the most desirable.

The "Forget Me Not" piece is stitched on punched paper. The paper punched ones have a nice old world look to them. This one is in the original criss cross frame.

When looking for a stitched piece, be sure that there aren't any holes or glaring discolorations. I also look at the quality of the stitching. You can find wonderful pieces on eBay, however be sure to ask questions, especially if the pictures aren't really good. Antique stores, flea markets and estate sales are other places to find these.

I also would like to thank everyone who left a comment on my 9-11 post. Yesterday was a sad reminder of where our world is. I cried all day and then cried more when I watched Oprah. Many of you had lovely postings and scripture for reflection. Thank you for your comforting words.
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16 comments:

  1. Lisa JohnsonSeptember 12, 2007 at 9:15 AM

    Hi Becky,

    Your photos yesterday were so heartbreaking. Such a sad day in our recent history. I love your little samplers. I actually started one years ago and never finished. It's too bad, cause it is kind of cute. Maybe I will dig it out and finish. If you haven't checked out my blog today yet, please do so. If you would like to have the scotty dog picture, I would be happy to send it to you. It reminded me of you so I thought you might like it. Let me know, and have a great day!
    Lisa

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  2. Sweet Cottage DreamsSeptember 12, 2007 at 9:56 AM

    Hi Lisa! I will see what you have!! XO, Becky

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  3. blessingsSeptember 12, 2007 at 10:22 AM

    I had not seen a couple of those 9/11 photo before. How fearfully breathtaking. On the flip side, your samplers are precious! Blessings... Polly

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  4. Nunnie's AtticSeptember 12, 2007 at 10:42 AM

    I know what you mean. I found myself glued to the TV like I was after the tragedy. Sobbing all day and night.

    I love all of your samplers. They're adorable. I wouldn't mind having a few of those myself. Gonna have to keep an eye now for them.

    Love,
    Julie

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  5. AnonymousSeptember 12, 2007 at 11:27 AM

    Your collection of samplers are just wonderful..

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  6. Kim @ Home Is Where The Heart IsSeptember 12, 2007 at 11:43 AM

    What a great collection you have, Becky!

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  7. SusieSeptember 12, 2007 at 1:24 PM

    Hi Becky,
    Your samplers are wonderful!
    I have a number of these also. Most of them were made by my Grandma or Bill's mom. Of course I truly cherish them..
    :)

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  8. cherrySeptember 12, 2007 at 1:56 PM

    Such gentle reminders of what is important..that is one of the reasons I am drawn to them. You have such a wonderful collection of them. I only have picked up 3 in my travels but love them. I have that Country Home mag and thought of you when I was reading the article. xoxo,c herry

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  9. DenaSeptember 12, 2007 at 8:51 PM

    I'm with you Becky, it was a tough day to manage through yesterday. My eyes stayed glued to the tv. It just doesn't get easier with time.

    Hugs,
    Dena

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  10. BettySeptember 12, 2007 at 9:55 PM

    Becky, I am always astonished when families give up something like those samplers. I know I would cherish one if my ancestor had made it. Yours are wonderful.
    I missed your post yesterday...but, I felt the same way. Hugs.

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  11. MarySeptember 13, 2007 at 3:59 AM

    I have only just read your last post. Looking at the photos are a reminder of the horror that happened that day. Your samplers are so lovely I can't believe that people do not want to keep them Mary

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  12. Sophie HoneysuckleSeptember 13, 2007 at 4:48 AM

    Hi Becky! Your last post was so touching and heartfelt, it really made me think.
    I also wanted to say your samplers are beautiful-I love them! x

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  13. Little ol' MeSeptember 13, 2007 at 10:16 AM

    I am constantly drawn to pieces such as these, but always resisted purchasing them because I wasn't sure how best to display them.

    I think when they are grouped together, as you have done, it has much more impact that the single piece on a wall.

    I think I'll give in to my next desire to purchase of these, and once I have three that I love I'll hang them as you have done!

    Thanks again for the inspiration!
    Tiffany

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  14. LalleeSeptember 13, 2007 at 1:43 PM

    Bless your heart, Becky. Those 911 pictures are seared in our minds forever.
    Your beautiful mottos are a soft spot in a broken world. I never grow tired of seeing your collection. It is quite wonderful.

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  15. AnonymousSeptember 14, 2007 at 12:40 AM

    Those cross-stitched pictures are lovely, Becky. Thanks also for the tips on what to look for when buying old embroidery.

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  16. HeidiSeptember 16, 2007 at 11:46 AM

    I love your vintage sayings samplers. I was lucky to receive one as a gift from a friend. Her DH found it in an old suitcase and they gave it to me. I cherish it. I love how you have enough to group them together.

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Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts!