Heartwarming

A row of Victorian houses under the snow, with wreaths on the doors, glowing windows and a decorated fir tree: a detailed Christmas scene worked in counted cross stitch from a full-colour chart with symbols. The 36 shades come already sorted on the thread organiser, so there is no need to wind and label them before starting.

Aida 16 count has a fairly fine weave, so good light helps, and a magnifier if you usually stitch on a lower count. The written instructions are in English, German and French, while the symbolic chart reads in any language. You will also need a hoop or frame and small scissors; the frame for display is not included.