14 Count Light Mocha Aida Cloth Precut Cross Stitch Fabric 19x21 in by Zweigart 3706/309

Stitch on Light Mocha, a 14 count Aida cloth by Zweigart: a light mocha Aida with a warm, sandy beige-brown tone. A coloured ground saves stitching a full background and sets the mood of the piece.

A little stitcher's folklore: old needlework teachers judged a sampler by its back as much as its front, and a tidy back with short, woven-in tails is still a point of pride.

Why this fabric: 14 count Aida is the most popular cross stitch fabric and the standard for most kits. The clear blocks make counting easy, so it is ideal for beginners, children and bold designs. This shade suits rustic, farmhouse and primitive designs.

In the pack: one precut piece of Zweigart Aida, 100% cotton, 14 count (5.4 squares per cm), in Light Mocha. Not included: chart, floss, needle and hoop, sold separately.

Getting started: overcast or tape the edges, fold to find the centre and stitch one cross over each block with a size 24 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 53 cm (19 x 21 in). Stitched one cross per block with a 2 in margin all round, it fits a design of about 205 x 235 stitches. It is a good piece to keep in the stash or to tuck into a gift for a stitching friend.