Bookmark - Winter villages (2)

Two wintry bookmarks worked in counted cross stitch: a decorated fir tree in front of snow-covered cottages, and a village with a church and a glowing lantern, each framed by a narrow red border. The designs are small and stitch up in a few evenings, so they travel well in a project bag.

The kit includes everything needed for the stitching, threads and needle as well; you only need to add scissors and, if you prefer working with one, a hoop. Once finished, the edges of the Aida can be frayed into a fringe, as shown in the photo, or backed with thin felt. They make a simple gift for a reader, especially at Christmas.