Gaudete Christmas Lantern Counted Cross-Stitch Kit by Abris Art AH-156

Stitch Gaudete, a Christmas counted cross-stitch kit by Abris Art — a blue lantern with a warm candle glowing inside, a big red bauble behind it, and sprigs of holly, all wrapped in swirling snow and stars on a deep blue night. Worked on white 14-count cotton Aida in 34 colours of embroidery floss.

A little stitcher's folklore: "Gaudete" means "rejoice" — it's the name of an old Christmas carol and of the third Sunday of Advent, when a rose-coloured candle is lit. A candle in the window at Christmas was a welcome for any traveller in need. Stitchers say finish this lantern before Christmas Eve and its light guides everyone you love home.

Why this kit: if you want a Christmas piece you'll bring out every December, this glowing lantern is it — rich, festive and cosy. It's a comfortable mid-sized project for confident beginners and experienced stitchers. A beautiful holiday gift.

Kit includes: white 14-count cotton Aida canvas, a cross stitch needle, 34 colours of cotton floss on an organizer card, a printed symbol chart, and instructions in 8 languages.

Counted cross stitch is worked by following the symbol chart and placing each cross on the Aida grid with the matching floss colour. Stitch the lantern and candle glow first, then the bauble, holly and snowy sky.

Finished size: 20×25 cm (7.87×9.84 in). Heirloom Christmas decor and a thoughtful holiday gift.