This collection of six embroidery kits is inspired by an antique satin cushion cover embroidered with silk. It was probably designed and stitched by a member of the Broderers Company in London in about 1600.

The designs are stitched using hand dyed silk threads from Gloriana, Dinky Dyes, The Thread Gatherer and Gumnut Yarns (depending on design) and are worked on Zweigart 'Salamanca' fabric.The worked area measures approx 4 x 4 ins (10 x 10 cm).

Kits are available for making the design into a picture or for making the design into a pin-cushion or fob. The pin-cushion can also be used as a pomander by adding pot-pouri (not included). The Picture Kit contains the threads (floss), fabric with design outline, iron-on Vilene interface, needle, detailed step-by-step instructions and a full glossary of the stitches used. The Pin-cushion Kit also contains additional threads for cording and edging, additional fabric for backing, and wadding together with detailed instructions for making up.

Stitches used :

• Strawberry: Padded Satin Stitch, Stem Stitch, Fly Stitch - Leaf, French Knot, Chain Stitch.

• Forget-me-not: Satin Stitch, Stem Stitch, French Knot, Chain Stitch.

• Rose: Padded Satin Stitch, Stem Stitch, Fly Stitch - Leaf, French Knot, Chain Stitch, Random Long Stitch.

• Harebell: Padded Satin Stitch, Stem Stitch, Fly Stitch - Leaf, Chain Stitch.

• Primrose: Padded Satin Stitch, Stem Stitch, French Knot, Chain Stitch.

• Pansy: Padded Satin Stitch, Stem Stitch, Fly Stitch - Leaf, French Knot, Chain Stitch.

All the Pin-cushion Kits also use blanket stitch for the edging.