28 Count Sapphire Green Cashel Linen Precut Cross Stitch Fabric 19x27 in by Zweigart 3281/6125

Stitch on Sapphire Green, a 28 count Cashel linen by Zweigart: a sapphire green linen with a cool blue-green tone. A coloured ground saves stitching a full background and sets the mood of the piece.

A little stitcher's folklore: working over two threads is how sampler makers stitched on fine linen; each cross covers a square of two threads, which evens out the natural slubs of the weave.

Why this fabric: Cashel is a 28 count linen, a little more open than Belfast, so it is easy on the eyes and the most forgiving linen to start with. Worked over two it gives 14 stitches per inch, the scale of 14 count Aida. This shade suits botanical, woodland and autumn designs.

In the pack: one precut piece of Zweigart Cashel, 100% linen, 28 count (11.2 threads per cm), in Sapphire Green. 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 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 205 x 315 stitches. Pair it with a chart and floss for a ready-to-start stitching gift.