Bookmark - Owls (2)

Two bookmarks to work in counted cross stitch, with owls in student caps sitting on stacks of brightly coloured books. The kit makes a matching pair: keep both or give one to a keen reader. The large-square chart and the few long stitches used for the details make it manageable even with little experience.

Everything you need is in the kit, threads and ribbons included: you only need basic tools such as small scissors and, if you prefer, a little hoop. Once the stitching is done, neaten the edges and attach the ribbon at the top; for a sturdier bookmark, glue a piece of card or thin felt to the back.