Blackwork beauty

t’s taken me almost a year (on and off) to complete the ‘Blackwork Hoop’ from issue 277 (February 2019) and I am very proud as this is the biggest cross stitch project I have ever attempted.

I’ve added my own touches by using purpledyed evenweave fabric and I painted the hoops purple to complement the pattern, I think it has turned out beautifully. I usually stitch for family and friends but this one is a keeper for sure.

Helen Fawcett, Scarborough

Fiona: Fantastic stitching, Helen! As you may already know, I’m a huge fan of the colour purple and of blackwork so your letter really jumped out at me. I’m not at all surprised that you wanted to keep this one for yourself – I would too. It’s such a pleasing pattern and the detail showcases all your stitchy skills brilliantly. If you’re confident building on your experience, I think you’d enjoy my ‘Russian Doll’ design from issue 315 (January 2022) as well. It makes use of a blue palette, lazy daisy stitch, seed and pebble beads as well as blackwork-style features too.