Angel

A little angel with a basket of flowers, stitched in a single range of sepia shades: the play of light and dark gives depth to the wings and the figure, so the finished piece looks like an old print. It is counted cross stitch, so you follow the chart square by square on the Aida, whose even, clearly visible weave makes the stitches easy to place.

The threads come ready sorted by colour on the organiser, so there is no need to match numbers before you start; a hoop or frame makes the stitching more comfortable. The frame shown in the photo is not included: once finished, the piece can be framed or used as a decorative panel, and makes a thoughtful gift for a christening or a new baby.