Crewel intentions

Broderie Perse has a long history and is seen in quilts and bed covers dating back to the 1700s. The literal translation means ‘Persian embroidery’ and, while historic examples are often seen embellis

After illness forced Louise Watson to give up her job as a teacher, she turned to embroidery. Now, she embraces the slow art of sewing as part of a more meditative way of life

The sheer textile has a fascinating way with light, allowing or intercepting its passage through the weave. Its qualities have taken several centuries to prove useful as well as beautiful. Handwoven l

■ Background fabric – Moda Chambray linen in grey – 2yds ■ Blue stripe ticking fabric (borders A and B and binding) – 1yd ■ Beige/blue print for borders D and E – 2¼yds ■ Light mixed prints – Nine (9)

This month, get creative with patterned fabrics and wallpapers, make everlasting paper flowers and invest in some quality bed linen or tableware

Designed by: Susan Bates Max. stitch count: 42 high x 42 wide Max. design size: 12x12cm (4⅝x4⅝in) Stitch time: 6 hours (each) This design was stitched on 18 count Anne cloth, working each stitch over