Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve in the sitting room: a tree loaded with baubles and candles with parcels at its foot, a blazing fire, an ivy-trimmed mantelpiece hung with stockings, dogs dozing on the rug and a figure resting on the sofa. A Sally Swannell design full of small details, made for unhurried stitching in the weeks before the holidays.

Nearly all of it is worked in full cross stitch, with backstitch outlines and just two French knots, so it suits stitchers with only a little experience. The threads come ready sorted on an organiser, so you can start straight away. You will also want small scissors and, if you prefer taut fabric, a hoop or frame; the frame shown is not included.