Life's Simple Pleasures

Two sheep sitting side by side, seen from behind among butterflies and little flowers, in Lucy Pittaway's naive style. Most of the work is plain counted cross stitch, with back stitch for the lettering and a single French knot; the woolly Lana threads included give the fleece a soft, slightly raised texture.

The stranded cottons come already sorted by colour and the Aida has clearly visible holes, so the stitching moves along even without much experience. The alphabet included lets you add a name or a date, handy if the piece is a gift for an anniversary. A hoop is useful while stitching, and a frame for hanging: neither is included.