Hand in hand

Two hands holding each other, stitched in soft sepia shades: a design from Vervaco's Sepia collection, made to be kept as a wedding or anniversary keepsake. The chart comes with a full alphabet, so you can add the couple's names and the date, as shown on the model.

It is worked in counted cross stitch on fine-count Aida, which renders the subtle tonal shifts of the design well: good light helps, and a magnifier if you like working with one. You will also need a hoop or frame and small scissors; the frame is not included and is best chosen after pressing, together with a pale mount that suits the neutral tones.