Shaped tablecloth - Poinsettia splendor

A square table topper with a shaped, lace-trimmed edge, printed with sprays of poinsettias, fir sprigs and gold scrolls. There is no counting involved: you follow the printed lines, which wash out once the work is finished. Only a handful of basic stitches are needed, so the piece suits anyone taking their first steps in freestyle embroidery.

The gold metallic thread is used for the scrolls and catches the light on the table. An embroidery hoop makes the stitching easier, but it is not included, and neither are scissors or a thimble. Once stitched and washed, the topper is ready to use on a table or sideboard through the festive season, on its own or with a Christmas arrangement in the centre.