“I would far rather have two or three lilies of the valley, gathered for me by a person I like, than the most expensive bouquet that could be bought.” I rather agree with Mrs Gibson, a character in Elizabeth Gaskell’s Wives and Daughters. There is something so touching about the delicate, waxy bells. I have planted a quantity of lily of the valley this year and hope that they will take to their new home and that next year I can pick my own posy. They are choosy little plants, so if they do settle I shall feel particularly blessed.

Anyone can tackle this design, inspired by a tiny, hand-painted illustration on an antique love letter I found at a brocante. it is a nice easy stitch, especially if you download my stitch cards, free of charge. The design is printed on a generous piece of linen, so you could make it into a needle case cover, or even make a cover for a little notebook. The design is just under 10cm high.

The price includes postage and packing to the USA, Canada and Australia.

For Europe and the UK, please see separate product lines.