Stitchers can never have too many threads in their stash – especially when they're as lovely as this gorgeous selection from Madeira!

You can receive this bumper thread pack, worth £44.60, FREE when you subscribe to CrossStitcher today.

Being a member has other benefits too – you'll save 28% on the shop price, receive delivery direct to your door at no extra cost, and gain exclusive access to our online subscriber-only area, Craft Circle, offering extra content, exclusive offers and exciting competitions.

Order online today, or call 0844 848 2852, quoting order code CSRW1F. Lines are open 8am-7.30pm weekdays, 8am-4pm Saturdays.

Hurry! Offer ends 31 October 2012

Send someone a bright and cheery sentiment with one of Durene Jones funky greetings cards in CrossStitcher issue 254.

Not only are they bold enough to get you in the mood for summer but they also cover a variety of occasions so you'll always be able to whip-up a perfect greetings card, even if its at the last minute!

You could stitch one for a new graduate receiving their exam results, or for a friend celebrating a big birthday with a garden party this summer? Just pick your brightest threads and get started.

* Download additional LOVE and BEST FRIENDS cards today and find the other four designs (left) on page 35 of our latest issue.

CrossStitcher issue 254 is on sale until 11th July and now available to buy online.

We're head over heels in love with Gail Bussi's pretty bluebird hanging sampler from our latest issue, and especially with its motto, "Moments of Joy to Treasure."

The plump little bluebirds sit among three beautifully decorated panels, surrounded by butterflies, flowers, heart motifs and delicate little seed beads. It's such a joy to behold.

Welcome to our final 'Needle Knowhow' feature. We hope you've enjoyed these monthly features, hosted by industry leaders John James Needles.

Last month we covered Quilting needles, but this month to round-up this collaborative online feature with a bang we're filling you in on everything about Household needles.

* For your chance to WIN the ENTIRE SET of Pebbles, scroll down to enter our final competition!

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This month, we're focusing on Household needles.

As a perfect starter kit, this bring pink Household Pebble (ref: JJP10300) contains the most popular types of needle's used in general sewing. There's a total of 12 needles in an assortment of sizes and varients, from sharps to darners. A must-have for any work box!

What are the most popular types of needle?

(A) Sharps are the most common hand sewing needles found in the home and are used for general sewing. They're also the most popular needle used by dressmakers around the world. Their small round eyes provides additional strength to the needles during the sewing process.

(B) Another really popular type of needle is the Darner. Short Darners are sometimes referred to as Cotton Darners and are commonly used in the art of mending and darning. They have long eyes making them easy to thread, especially when using yarn and mending cotton.

Both of these needles are available to purchase in a Household Assorted pack or under their own varient...