Embroidered sampler 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. Elizabeth Smith tells us she was eleven years old when she embroidered this sampler in 1803. Among the moral verses she has chosen to include is a grim but true statement. 'When greedy worms My Body eat Here you may read my Name complete'. Linen sampler by Elizabeth Smith, embroidered with silk; English; dated 1803.