Antique reproduction samplers are the subject this week and our guest is Nicola Parkman of Hands Across The Sea Samplers. We had a terrific time talking with Nicola about how she acquires samplers, the reproductions her company produces, how she researches the history of the girls who created the originals, and the interesting stories behind the samplers. We also talked about her global company, the beautiful charts they produce, and Sarah Borton 1815, the latest chart from Hands Across The Sea Samplers. It was an absolute treat to talk with Nicola. –Christine and Gary
Listen to the podcast:
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Follow Nicola and her Hands Across the Sea Samplers partners and communicate with them through their online channels:
- Hands Across The Sea Samplers website
- Hands Across The Sea Blog
- Hands Across The Sea on Facebook
- Stitching by the Cornish Seashore blog
- Hands Across The Sea on YouTube
- Hands Across The Sea on Instagram
Nicola’s Recommendations
At the end of the show, Nicola offered a recommendation and some thoughts. Those are below, along with the link to the pin-stitch video Gary mentioned:
“Just remember when looking at larger and more “complicated” samplers that they are not “hard”, they are just big, and just like the longest journey that begins with a single step, so does the largest sampler begin with a single stitch. Those different stitches begin the same way, by sticking the needle first in, then out, of the fabric. Only difference between one type of stitch and the other is where you put that needle and how you manipulate the thread. Think of each band as a mini sampler”
“I do believe that all things are possible if you believe in yourself and are prepared to try.”
“Remember those young girls working on their samplers they were not only learning stitches and patterns but perseverance!!”
We hope you enjoy this week’s conversation with Nicola Parkman. We’re always looking for guests, so let us know if there is someone you’d like us to have on the show.–Gary and Christine
[…] If you would like to know more about me and Hands Across the Sea Samplers you can listen to the interview HERE. […]
[…] Fiber Talk with Nicola Parkman […]
This was my first “fiber” podcast! Thoroughly enjoyed listening to Nicola, whose work I have admired, and Gary and Christine also.
I look forward to listening to more.
Love the idea of the giveaway!
One of my early samplers was stitched for my sister, the Weeping Tree Sampler. I love stitching houses and buildings and The Old Scot really appeals to me.