The sewing sampler is a binding that incorporates a variety of book sewing styles, both supported and unsupported. This binding was made as a personal reference and for practice with different sewing structures. Although it includes a wide range of sewing techniques, the book does not demonstrate the mechanical movement of each stitch.

I first saw an example of this type of sampler book made by Christine Manwiller (from the Buffalo State program). Anne Covell, a book artist, offers a workshop on making this type of sewing sampler (though not currently) and also sells them. Although I have not spoken with her directly, I based many of my sewing style choices on her work.

During the pandemic, I had to set up a workbench at home and create a DIY sewing frame on a limited budget. Melissa suggested a few affordable options. I ended up using two clamps, a round wooden rod, and two mini spring clamps to assemble a sewing frame. The advantage of this setup is that it is the cheapest and easiest to construct. However, keeping the wooden rod in place was challenging, especially when tying in sixteen sewing supports with even tension. If the rod can be stabilized, this could serve as a viable alternative to a traditional sewing frame.

I arranged each sewing type as symmetrically as possible along the spine. Sewing a book of this length with so many different sewing styles presented multiple challenges. The book was too long to sew comfortably from the side, and I had to rethread my needle every two or three sections.