Cross stitch pattern from Heartstring Samplery! Stitch count 200w x 200h.

I heard the bells
on Christmas day
their old familiar
carols play
wild and sweet
the words repeat
peace on Earth
good will to men

Note from the designer:

"I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" is a carol based on the 1863 poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The song tells of his despair upon hearing Christmas bells during the American Civil War, when "hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on Earth, good will to men", but concludes with the bells carrying renewed hope for peace among men. I can't think of a more appropriate wish back then, and still today.

I wanted to create a sampler that would be a worthy of this beautiful song, so I made an intricate and playful border bedecked in sparkling bells, with some of the lyrics highlighted within. I chose to stitch my model with the most gorgeous silk I could find, and added some extra shine with metallic thread for the bells. I hope that this sampler keeps you humming and smiling all season long.
Model stitched on 36 ct. Vintage Light Examplar using Gloriana Silk thread. Stitch count is 200 x 200.