Create a cross-stitch lavender bag

For the cushion cover

Cut a 4.5cm x 5.5cm rectangle of Aida. On graph paper, draw out a cross-stitch chart for your chosen initial and cross-stitch on to the rectangle of Aida. Press under 5mm on all edges. Cut a 32cm x 10cm rectangle of fine weave fabric. Press under 1cm, then 3cm at both short ends and stitch. Fold rectangle in half and pin Aida rectangle 1cm up from the fold. Unfold and stitch Aida in place. Fold rectangle in half with right sides together and sew up side seams. Trim seams and neaten edges together. Turn right side out. Fill with lavender and tie up with ribbon.

Guide to cross-stitch

Cross-stitch is worked following a design from a chart on to even-weave fabric, by counting the threads in the fabric to position the stitches accurately. It can be worked from left to right or vice versa – the top diagonals of each cross should slant in the same direction throughout. We used two strands of DMC embroidery thread in Blue 803 and 18-count Aida fabric.

Feature: Kirsty Robertson. Photos: Richard Burns. Illustrations: Terry Evans

DMC Aida and embroidery threads, C&H (01892 773600). Linen, Cloth House (020 7437 5155). Lavender, Neal’s Yard (01747 834634)

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