28 Count Platinum Grey Cashel Linen Precut Cross Stitch Fabric 19x27 in by Zweigart 3281/769

Stitch on Platinum Grey, a 28 count Cashel linen by Zweigart: a platinum grey linen with a cool, silvery mid-gray tone. A coloured ground saves stitching a full background and sets the mood of the piece.

A little stitcher's folklore: samplers often ended with the stitcher's name, age and the year the work was finished, which is why so many antique pieces can be dated exactly.

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 modern, minimalist and winter designs.

In the pack: one precut piece of Zweigart Cashel, 100% linen, 28 count (11.2 threads per cm), in Platinum Grey. 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. One piece is plenty for a framed sampler, a pillow front or several small ornaments.