Sage Stitchworks Punched Paper Embroidery - History of Victorian Motto Samplers

unched paper embroidery was a form of fashionable Victorian "fancywork" used as a leisure time activity for all ages during the late nineteenth century. The ease of stitching on a pre-printed pattern on sturdy punched paper without need of a hoop or frame made it an extremely popular pastime of the day. These mail-order "mottos", as they became known, were sold as kits, complete with the typical cross-bar style frames you can now find only as antiques.

Stitched in lavish colors, in the newly discovered variegated threads, and backed with sparkly gold or silver foil their earnest messages added beauty, color and light to their dark homes.

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.

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, obedience or love and protection in a child's room, and greetings of "Welcome," "God Bless Our Home" or other declarations of hospitality and family loyalty greeted guests. Favorite hymns and scripture were spread throughout the home to teach spiritual virtues and to keep the occupants' hearts and minds turned toward God.

Also known as "door texts" most mottos were sized to fit over the door and, if not secured properly, were known to come crashing down on unsuspecting entrants! It would not be unusual to find a motto over just about every door in the Victorian home.

The fashion of punched paper embroidery phased out around 1910, but the enjoyment of the pastime is as delightful and the messages of the mottos still ring as true today as they did then. By stitching one of these beautiful mottos for your own home, you are creating a rich spiritual heritage for your own family to treasure.

A new eBook has been written on the subject of perforated paper, further detailing it's history with lots of photos, copies of ads and articles from the 1800's plus a care guide section for antique mottoes. The cost is $4.95 and it is delivered as a pdf file which can be printed out if the buyer wishes. You can order this eBook by e-mailing the author at diana@bookbill.com.