Lilies of the Valley and Lilac

A wicker basket brimming with lilies of the valley, sprays of pink and purple lilac and white apple blossom, set against a pale background: a spring bouquet worked entirely in counted cross stitch, with plenty of shaded tones to give depth to the petals and leaves.

The light grey fabric is unprinted, so you follow the colour chart with symbols, starting from the centre and counting the stitches, usually with two strands of stranded cotton over two Aida threads. The forty-five colours come ready sorted on the organiser, which saves time at the start. You will also need a hoop or frame to stitch on, and a picture frame for finishing, neither of which is part of the kit.