Our stitchable snowflake garland kit from issue 257 has certainly proved a hit with you guys - we've had countless emails and messages asking how you can get your hands on more!

Unfortunately the stars aren't available to buy, but it's easy to make your own. Choose some plain card that's not too thick, then follow our step-by-step guide to making it stitchable.

Step one: Begin with a scrap of aida  - use 11 count for as close a fit to our original template as possible. Using your chart and a sharp pencil, draw crosses over each block to be stitched.

Step two: Using masking tape, attach the aida scrap onto your card. Place a few layers of felt or think fabric underneath. Using a large needle with a sharp point, punch through only the holes to be stitched.  Alternatively, if you haven't stitched your free stars yet, use them as the template for punching the holes.

Step three: Remove the masking tape and aida swatch to reveal your design. You'll notice that on the front side the perforations are smooth while on the back they're rough and raised. Be sure to cross stitch on the smooth side.

Step four: Cut out a star shape, keeping your perforated patch as the centre. Stitch your design using a smaller needle than the one you used to punch the holes. Put your star under a heavy book to flatten if necessary.

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