Valentine's Day is almost upon us, and what better way to spread the love this year than by extending your affection to people all across the globe?

Back in Autumn we told you about The Craftivist Collective's new #imapiece campaign to tackle world hunger, in association with Save The Children. The aim is for crafters to each stitch three puzzle pieces with messages that will encourage both the public and MPs to take action on hunger - one to be made into part of an art installation, one to be sent to your local MP, and one for you to keep yourself to remind you that you are always a piece of the solution.

Who said Valentine's Day cards have to be smushy? In our February issue, you'll find a set of paired-up animal silhouette cards that are as cool as they are affectionate. Choose from penguins, birds, elephants, squirrels or download this extra owls design and complete the set...

Shake off the January blues and start looking forward to some springtime stitching with our fabulous February giveaways. We've got tickets for the London Creative Stitches & Hobbycrafts Show as well as Cake International for all you baking enthusiasts, and cross stitch kits from Goldleaf Needlework and Cottage Needlecrafts. To be in with a chance of winning simply click on the links below:

Creative Stitches & Hobbycrafts Show tickets

Cake International tickets

Goldleaf Needlework kits

Cottage needlecrafts kits

Prize Crossword

It may be gloomy outside, but you can dream of sunshine to come thanks to Lesley Teare's blooming daffodils in Cross Stitch Collection's February issue (on sale 18 January).

With their yellow petals and trumpet-shaped centre, nothing signals that the gloomy days of winter are finally over quite like these beauties.

If you're after a quick stitch or something small to brighten up a simple project, this single flower is just what you need.

Download it for FREE here.