This colourful floral cross stitch by Jamie Chalmers, AKA Mr X Stitch, was inspired by the vibrancy of a Californian poppy in the sunlight, and the diverse petal formations of dahlias. The design is also based on a basic colour wheel, showing the primary and secondary colours that exist within the spectrum. You can cross stitch it onto white fabric if you like, although it will really pop against a black background – the choice is yours.
Work a colourful hanging
1 Download and print the colour chart using the button above. Fold your Aida in half both ways to form a cross-shaped crease in the centre, then secure in a hoop so the crease is in the middle and the fabric is smooth and taut.
2 Work the design according to the chart, starting from the middle and working outwards. The colour key at the bottom of the chart will tell you which threads to use for each part of the design.
3 If you run out of thread or come to the end of the section you’re stitching and need to secure off, take your needle under three or four stitches on the underside of y