Julia Wigham

Cross stitch in the UK has had a varied history. However, it was Jo Verso's 1980's book "Picture it in Cross Stitch" that caused a cross stitch revival which is still being felt today, some 30 years later. This book was responsible for showing how a simple stitch can be used to create the various elements of the long-heralded sampler.

Lovers of cross stitch in the UK have numerous museums housing various examples of samplers, which have a history that is completely theirs. One of the most famous samplers on display is the Jane Bostocke sampler, completed in 1598, which is housed in the Victoria and Albert textile museum in London. Donated in 1960, this sampler was donated to the museum after it had been saved from an attic.

If you would like to view one of the marvelous samplers up close, the Victoria and Albert has a special room set aside for visitors to study the exhibit in depth. Of course, the museum offers more textile arts than just cross stitch. You will also find costumes and other textiles if you have an opportunity to visit the museum.

Another museum based in London is the Royal School of Needlework, located at Hampton Court Palace. Established to teach the art of needlework to the gentlewomen in 1872, this school continues the tradition by offering a three-year course of study as well as day classes today.

Students in the Royal School of Needlework are given the chance to work for private individuals, the military, and stately homes in the area. They also learn how to conserve, repair, and clean the antique textiles that are part of the school's large collection. If an antique piece is too old, delicate, or damaged to restore, the students will reproduce the work using the methods of the time.
 
In 1996, author Jane Greenhoff founded the Cross Stitch Guild, which has been instrumental in causing further renewed interest in cross stitch in the UK. Based in the Cotswolds around the charming cottages that began her cross stitch career, Greenhoff runs classes and weekend courses. She has also created her own cross stitch design software, which is used to create our Patterns Patch designs.

Cross stitch in the UK has much to offer anyone interested in cross stitch. Just look at the beautiful scenery and magnificent buildings from which to create new cross stitch designs. Now might be a great time to begin this relaxing hobby if you haven't given it a try just yet. You'll be glad that you did.