Natural Light
The dramatic and atmospheric aspects of the weather are cleverly depicted in these two lakeside scenes. The morning sunshine breaking through cloud and a rainbow at dusk are fleeting images that are captured in Cross stitch for posterity. The shafts of sunlight and the rainbow are worked in half Cross stitch on top of full cross stitch to achieve a translucent effect.

Faded Beauty
Although many samplers were originally stitched in vivid hues, over time, their brightness gently fades to subtler tones which can be just as, or if not more, attractive than the original. This traditional-style sampler with its alphabet and variety of borders is a ‘ready-aged’ embroidery with pastel threads and parchment fabric. With just seven shades in this design, you could decide to re-create a ‘just-stitched’ look and opt for a paler fabric and bright threads.

Tropical Colour
Get ahead with birthdays and other special occasions for the coming year by stitching these quick cards. They take very little time and make the perfect project to take a break from a larger embroidery. Full of colour, they will brighten up the dark months and give a sense of satisfaction with a quick finish and being prepared for unexpected or forgotten occasions!

Lagartera Time
A new way to display embroidery is always welcome and we were delighted to discover a wall clock that would do just that. With a solid wooden frame and brass-effect hands, it will complement all types of embroidery. This series begins with a blue and white Lagartera design that includes the technique’s key features of satin stitch motifs and fronds. It would be very easy to opt for alternative shades of fabric and thread to match your home décor. Alternatively, if you have no need of a clock, the main part of the design, with the numerals omitted, will make a fine table mat.

Autumn Leaves
The effects achievable in Cross stitch are perhaps as varied as those seen in nature. This series of design explores the different looks a basic leaf shape can take with a variation on stitch and thread. You can develop this idea further by creating an outline of any size and shape and choosing one of these ways to decorate it.

Carrickmacross Masterclass
Discover this unique form of Irish needlelace from the town of Carrickmacross. Thread is couched onto a sandwich of net and organdie to form the pattern and the excess organdie is carefully snipped away to reveal the design. These step by step instructions will have you creating a delicate fuchsia design in no time.