Waiting for a Holiday Christmas Owl Counted Cross Stitch Kit by RTO C277

Stitch Waiting for a Holiday, a counted cross stitch kit by RTO — a fluffy little ginger owl sits on a pale, sketch-like birch branch, watching over a single red Christmas bauble that hangs below. Soft grey branches, lots of airy white space and one bright red accent give it a quiet, elegant winter feel. Worked in 16 colours of DMC stranded cotton.

A little stitcher's folklore: owls have long been keepers of wisdom and the watchers of the long winter nights, and an owl close to the house was said to keep it safe while everyone sleeps. Stitchers say this one is guarding the first ornament until the holidays arrive.

Why this kit: if you love Christmas stitching that isn't loud or busy, this owl is a calm, stylish choice you can hang up every December. A lovely project for owl lovers, and a thoughtful handmade gift for the festive season.

Kit includes: 14-count white Zweigart Aida (100% cotton), DMC stranded cotton in 16 colours, a needle, a colour symbol chart and instructions. A frame and hoop are not included.

Start with the owl and the red bauble, where most of the colour sits, then work the long grey branches outward using the symbol chart. The open background is left unstitched, so the design comes together quickly.

Finished size: 16.5×27 cm (6.5×10.63 in). A tall, gentle Christmas picture to frame and a thoughtful handmade gift.