Colours of Christmas by Christine P. Bishop

Can you feel it? Can you feel the air of Christmas just starting to blow in? People are starting to plan for the big day; gift lists are being created; the first of the decorations are appearing in the shops and, best of all, Christmas stitching projects are popping up like mushrooms.

We all know that any needlework project created in time for Christmas day is going to take time. So, if you are looking for one that you can still finish in time for 25th December this year, Colours of Christmas by Christine P. Bishop is exactly what you are after. 

This beautiful set, comprising a biscornu and mini project-bag, would make an ideal gift for a treasured friend or relative, or a perfect project to bring your own sense of Christmas cheer.

Christine is famous for her exquisite, counted projects. She’s a master at not just discovering new and traditional techniques, but at finding new and modern ways to pass them on so that the stitches and techniques will never die.

Colours of Christmas makes use of the traditional reds and greens that characterise the season. Reflected in the holly bushes that were apparently used in ancient times to decorate houses during the cold, dark period leading up to the Winter Solstice, the cheerful colours have since become associated with the season.

Christine has employed a range of different counted stitches including the elegant Queen stitch and the unusual Breton stitch to form the simple central design that features on both elements of this project.

Whilst most stitchers are familiar with cross stitch and double running stitch, there is still enough to challenge the experienced embroiderer, but not so much that the project will take months to finish.

Colours of Christmas will benefit from using the best quality linen available, particularly for the project bag, which is finished with antique hem stitch and a twisted cord around the top.

The other essential item for this project is a magnifier or good stitching glasses, as accurate counting is vital to achieve symmetry. 

This is definitely the kind of project that you could stitch twice or even three times over, which is just as well because we’re pretty sure once you’ve completed it, giving it away as a gift may prove difficult to part with so making more than one set might just be the solution!

Perfect for Christmas but also perfect to brighten up your day all year long,  Colours of Christmas is another reason why Christine P. Bishop is a master designer in all things counted thread.

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Colours of Christmas by Christine P. Bishop is a delightful biscornu pincushion and sachet with counted thread design celebrating the festive season.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kit for Colours of Christmas includes everything* you need to re-create this delightful duo: Fabric (unprinted), fibre-fill, embroidery threads, sewing thread, beads and needles.

*Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the magazine/digital pattern.