Escalier avec des fleurs

A flower-filled staircase painted by Willem Haenraets, translated into counted cross stitch with plenty of shading: the blooms are built from soft tonal changes, so the chart needs careful following, though the areas are broad and the picture grows quickly.

The kit holds everything you need for the stitching itself, but the frame is not included: add a hoop or frame and good light to work comfortably. Counted cross stitch is worked on linen over two threads of the fabric, usually with two strands of stranded cotton. Once finished, wash the piece, press it from the back and take it to be framed: it makes a classic picture for a living room or bedroom.