Loving Hedgehogs Counted Cross-Stitch Kit by Abris Art AHM-036

Stitch Loving Hedgehogs, a romantic counted cross-stitch kit by Abris Art — two little hedgehogs meet nose to nose on top of a big red "YOU," with tiny hearts floating above them on pale blue Aida. Worked in 17 colours of embroidery floss.

A little stitcher's folklore: hedgehogs were old European weather prophets — long before Groundhog Day, farmers watched the hedgehog at Candlemas to see if spring was coming. They're also said to bring good luck to any garden they visit. And as needleworkers say, stitch a pair and love stays: two hedgehogs, one heart.

Why this kit: if you want to say something sweet without a card, stitch it. This small design is quick to finish, the hoop is included and doubles as a frame, and it's easy for beginners. It's the kind of handmade gift that ends up on a desk or bedside table for years.

Kit includes: 100% cotton Aida canvas, a cross stitch needle, 17 colours of embroidery floss on an organizer, a printed symbol chart, an embroidery hoop, 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 lettering and hearts, then the prickly little hedgehogs.

Finished size: 15×15 cm (5.91×5.91 in). A sweet Valentine's or anniversary gift and a cheerful accent for any wall.