32 Count Ruby Wine Murano Evenweave Precut Cross Stitch Fabric 19x27 in by Zweigart 3984/9060

Stitch on Ruby Wine, a 32 count Murano evenweave by Zweigart: a ruby wine evenweave with a deep burgundy-red tone. A coloured ground saves stitching a full background and sets the mood of the piece.

A little stitcher's folklore: Victorian stitchers loved bright wools on deep, dark grounds, which is why rich reds, greens and navies still feel so traditional for Christmas needlework.

Why this fabric: Murano is Zweigart's 32 count version of Lugana, the same smooth cotton and viscose blend at the scale of Belfast linen. Worked over two it gives 16 stitches per inch, matching 16 count Aida, without the slubs of a true linen. This shade suits Christmas ornaments, stockings and holiday samplers.

In the pack: one precut piece of Zweigart Murano, 52% cotton and 48% viscose, 32 count (12.6 threads per cm), in Ruby Wine. Not included: chart, floss, needle and hoop, sold separately.

Getting started: overcast the edges, fold to find the centre and stitch over two threads with a size 26 or 28 tapestry needle, using two strands of floss. Wash finished work by hand in cool water and press face down on a towel.

Size: 48 x 68 cm (19 x 27 in). Worked over two with a 2 in margin all round, it fits a design of about 235 x 360 stitches. One piece is plenty for a framed sampler, a pillow front or several small ornaments.