Hands and feet

A sepia birth sampler: adult hands cradling a newborn's tiny feet, a design that makes a thoughtful gift for a christening or a new arrival. The alphabet supplied with the chart lets you add the baby's name, date of birth and weight, so the finished piece records a particular story.

It is worked in counted cross stitch on Aida, with a few long stitches for the finer outlines; the handful of closely related shades makes for restful stitching, though the fine count calls for good light. You will also need a hoop or frame and small scissors; the frame shown is not included and can be chosen once the work is done.