Blooming Heart

A large heart built out of peonies, roses and garden flowers in shades of pink, fuchsia and lilac, with a faceted heart at the centre that looks like a cut gem. The pale grey Aida makes the lighter petals stand out and gives the bouquet depth.

This one suits a stitcher with some experience: there are many colours and the shading calls for careful reading of the symbol chart. Fabric, threads, needle and chart are all included; you will still need a hoop or frame and, once finished, a picture frame, which is not part of the kit. On 16 count Aida the stitches are small and crisp, usually worked with two strands of stranded cotton, so good light or a magnifier helps.