The Queen of Flowers

A bouquet of yellow roses worked in cross stitch: the petals shade from cream to apricot, while the leaves move between light green and deep blue-green, with plenty of mid tones for a watercolour effect. The 37 colours come ready sorted on the organiser, so there is no need to separate the skeins before starting.

The fabric is evenweave and carries no printed design: you follow the symbol chart, usually with two strands of stranded cotton on 16 count Aida. It is a good-sized piece, suited to stitchers with some experience who enjoy soft floral shading. You will also need a hoop or frame and a small pair of scissors; the frame shown is not included and can be chosen once the work is finished.