Maps and Mythology

28 count, stitched over 2 strands

Let your needle take you on an exhilarating journey around an ancient world as you complete this dramatic chart. Designer Maria Diaz is fascinated by the mystical world of Greek mythology and she loves studying ancient charts, which is why she's combined the two for this design. And we think they produce a striking cross stitch project that's fun to stitch. Maria has kept her map decorative, and surrounded it with four mighty Greek gods, representing the four elements. She's used a limited palette of earthy colours, which adds to the antique feel - and it also means you won't have to constantly change colours. I hope a fan of ancient Greece, or anyone else with a love of history or travel, will find it a joy to stitch. It looks superb hung in a study. You will need: Threads: Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle: Size 26 tapestry needle Fabric: 28-count white evenweave measuring 40x50cm (16x20in) Extras: A frame of your choice with a minimum aperture of 28x37cm (11 x 14 1/2 in) Stitching time: Aprrox 55 hours Type of stitches: Cross stitch, backstitch, French knots Level: Intermediate