Say Cheese!

Two mice hold hands beneath an arch of lily of the valley while a ladybird scatters red petals above them, in a springlike scene designed by Honor Barton and finished with the lettering along the bottom. Alongside cross stitch the design uses back stitch for outlines and details, lazy daisy stitches and French knots, all covered in the enclosed instructions.

The work is counted from the chart on even-weave Aida, so a little cross stitch experience helps. The alphabet included lets you add a name or a date, handy if you want to turn the piece into a keepsake for a wedding or a friendship. You will also need a hoop or frame and small scissors, plus a picture frame for mounting: that is not included.