Begin with the wording
Check the spelling, date and punctuation before you chart anything. Start with the names on one line and a short date beneath them. Longer names may need separate lines. Decide whether you want all capitals or mixed case; not every alphabet includes lowercase. Keep the wording concise so it remains legible at the size you want to frame.
Pick an alphabet at its working size
Choose a compact block alphabet for a small label or an ornate face for a larger sampler. The font tool lists unsupported characters and warns when lowercase will become capitals. Inspect spaces inside letters, narrow joins and the date numerals on the actual stitch grid. Increasing the height can also increase the width, so compare dimensions after each change.
Balance the lines
Center alignment is a useful starting point for names and a date, but it is not required. Check the spaces between the names and around an ampersand. Leave breathing room between lines. A longer name line with a shorter date below usually needs less decoration than a very short name. Use the sampler presets as editable starting points, then replace all example names and dates.
Add a border without crowding the text
Open the chart in the editor to add motifs or a border. Save a copy before adding decoration. Keep enough empty stitches between letters and the border that both shapes remain readable. A small heart or simple geometric frame can be effective with one or two colors; avoid adding a large collection of motifs merely to fill every gap.
Size and check before gifting
Use the final chart width and height in the fabric calculator. For example, a 70-stitch-wide design is 5 inches wide on 14-count Aida, before blank margins. Download the PDF and check the legend and spelling one last time. Choose floss against physical fabric where possible. If the sampler is a gift, include time for stitching, washing or finishing as appropriate, and mounting.