Calliope's Meadow cross stitch folk embroidery kit

The Calliope's Meadow cross stitch folk embroidery kit is inspired by a tiny border on a traditional bed curtain from the Greek islands. Carnations alternate with tiny flower bud sprays in a fresh palette of alizarin, green, and blue. Great for beginners and a terrific introduction to Greek folk embroidery and stitching on folk fabrics.

The original bed curtain embroidery has a fascinating history: it was purchased in Greece by Wace and Dawkins (a pair of British folk embroidery researchers) in the late 1800s, and sold to the famous designer, William Morris, who in turn, gifted it to his daughter, May Morris. May was famous in her own right for her embroidery designs and skill, and I love to think how the original embroidery made its winding way back to someone who would treasure it!

What you'll make: A 15 x 22" table runner (can also be finished as a cushion cover or wall hanging)

What's in your kit:

• One 17 x 24" piece of 26ct 100% cotton Traditional Groundcloth in natural
• DMC 6-strand embroidery floss
• John James size 24 cross stitch needle
• Full color chart and instructions

Stitches used: Cross stitch, backstitch Skill level: Confident Beginner Stitch count: 115 x 201 stitch area, 7,098 cross stitches, 2464 backstitches

What does "confident beginner" mean for this kit?

It means you've cross stitched at least a little and you're comfortable following a charted pattern. This kit has more stitching than a first project, whether from a larger design, more repeats, or more colors. Nothing here is technically difficult, it's simply a bigger project.

Please note: the drawn thread hem finishing shown in the photos has to be done after the design is stitched; the fabric in your kit will come with the raw edges serged so they don't unravel while you are stitching.