Sakura's Fairy Blossom Bonsai Counted Cross Stitch Kit by Luca-S B1114L

Stitch Sakura's Fairy, a counted cross stitch kit by Luca-S — a tiny fairy with delicate wings sits reading at the foot of a bonsai cherry tree in full pink blossom, with loose pages of her story scattered around the pot. Soft pinks, fresh greens and lots of open white fabric give it a light, spring-like feel. Based on artwork by Ecaterina Babok.

A little stitcher's folklore: in Japan, cherry blossom lasts only a few days, and the old story goes that a fairy lives in every sakura tree to keep the petals on as long as she can. Stitchers say she is writing down the spring so it can be read again in winter.

Why this kit: a gentle, dreamy little picture for anyone who loves fairies, flowers or Japanese style. The open background means it comes together more quickly than a full-coverage piece.

Kit includes: 16-count white Zweigart Aida (100% cotton), Anchor 100% cotton threads in 38 colours, a needle, a symbol chart and instructions. A frame and hoop are not included.

Start with the fairy and her book, then stitch the dark bonsai trunk and pot, and finish with the clouds of pink blossom using the symbol chart. The background fabric is left unstitched.

Finished size: 18×25.5 cm (7.1×10 in). A pretty spring picture for a bedroom or reading nook, and a sweet gift for fairy lovers.