Embroidered sampler Linen sampler by Ann Rhodes, embroidered with silk; English; dated 1780. The earliest samplers were reference works for embroiderers. They showed 'samples' of patterns and stitches and recorded how to achieve particular effects. In Europe in the 17th century samplers provided instruction and practice for girls learning needlework. By the 18th century girls used samplers to show more than just their needlework skills and religious faith. Geography was used to show both academic and needlework skills. At first, the pupil or her teacher drew the map onto the canvas. This is what happened with this example, which Ann Rhodes completed when she was thirteen years old. The style became so popular that printed satin versions could be purchased ready to embroider.