Bouquet of Peonies

A bunch of peonies with soft pink petals fading into green foliage, almost like a watercolour: the effect comes from the gentle tonal shifts across thirty shades and from the half cross stitch, which lightens the background areas. The chart is printed with large squares, easy to follow even in the busiest parts.

The 12-thread linen is usually worked over two threads, with one strand of stranded cotton for half cross stitch and two for full crosses; back stitch defines the outlines. A frame or hoop and a small pair of scissors will make the work easier. The frame shown in the photo is not included: have the finished piece framed to size, ideally with a mount.