Feathered Whisperers, The

Cross stitch pattern by Barbara Ana Designs. This is the first reproduction sampler charted in cross stitch by Barbara Ana. It's quite rare to come across an antique sampler with a large cat like this one. In fact there are quite a few interesting and unusual details in this sampler even though the layout of the motifs and the borders are traditional. It looks like the stitcher wanted to take some liberty with traditional needlework and added details she found interesting. The designer leaves you the choice of either stitching the borders as in the original, or leaving them out. The borders are quite exquisite, with a vertical vine motif contrasting with an intricate fern-like motif running horizontally. Stitch count 259 x 263. Stitched on #8030 Newcastle Linen cream.