Examples of cross stitch worked on evenweave fabric can be found all over the world. What distinguishes Bulgarian cross stitch is its floral or geometric patterns, the predominance of red thread and the use of back stitch to outline shapes and add fine detail. Bulgarian embroidery became fashionable in Western Europe in the late nineteenth century, with traditional patterns being adapted to appeal to amateur embroiderers. This design may not be finished in an evening, but it's much easier than it looks!
Stitch a purse
1 Stretch aida across an embroidery hoop, then thread a tapestry needle with two strands of red thread, approximately 140cm long. Download the chart from the template pack for Sew January 2015 (click button above).
2 Find the centre of the fabric and mark it with a pin or a small stitch. Bring your needle up in the centre, remembering to secure the end. Remove the pin or unpick the stitch.
3 Start embroidering the design working from the centre outwards