In the fields

A female figure seen from behind, surrounded by a rose bush: the soft shading of the white dress and the pale background means frequent colour changes and good light, while a few long stitches define the flower stems. The design is worked by counting stitches on linen, usually with one strand of stranded cotton over two fabric threads.

A frame or hoop makes the work easier, and it is worth leaving a generous margin of fabric around the design for mounting later. The frame shown in the photo is not included: once finished, the embroidery can be framed with a mount, as in the picture, or stretched over a board.