25 Count Black Lugana Evenweave Precut Cross Stitch Fabric 19x27 in by Zweigart 3835/720

Stitch on Black, a 25 count Lugana evenweave by Zweigart: a deep black evenweave, perfect for bright floss that pops. Light threads and metallics glow against a deep ground like this.

A little stitcher's folklore: Victorian stitchers loved bright wools on deep, dark grounds, which is why rich reds, greens and navies still feel so traditional for Christmas needlework.

Why this fabric: Lugana is a soft cotton and viscose evenweave with perfectly even threads, so there are no slubs to work around. Worked over two it gives 12.5 stitches per inch, a little larger than 14 count Aida, which makes it a comfortable first step from Aida to evenweave. This shade suits bright, high-contrast designs and white or metallic thread work.

In the pack: one precut piece of Zweigart Lugana, 52% cotton and 48% viscose, 25 count (10 threads per cm), in Black. Not included: chart, floss, needle and hoop, sold separately.

Getting started: overcast the edges, fold to find the centre and stitch over two threads with a size 24 or 26 tapestry needle, using two strands of floss. A light or white cloth behind the fabric makes the holes much easier to see. Wash finished work by hand in cool water.

Size: 48 x 68 cm (19 x 27 in). Worked over two with a 2 in margin all round, it fits a design of about 185 x 280 stitches. Large enough for a framed picture, or cut it down for cards, bookmarks and ornaments.