There are a few things we just can't seem to get enough of bold contemporary cross stitch this season. Spring 2013 is all about bright palettes, bold shapes and stunning centrepieces. So, imagine our delight when needlepoint designer Felicity Hall created this corker-of-a-cushion for our April issue... 

Yes! Spring is on here and we couldn't be happier.

As well as looking forward to brighter days (for stitching in natural light!), we're planning on crafting a whole heap of bold designs to brighten up our decor, such as Rebecca Tuffnell's proud peacock cushion in its electric blue, coral and gold colour pallette.

We can't wait to get started on Felicity Hall's bold stencil-style butterfly cushion either - its colourburst of shades and guaranteed to make a statement. Then there's a sweet little button-adorned purse and cool wooden keyring kit (your FREE GIFT this month) to get started on too. It comes with everything you need to stitch a vintage rose design directly onto a specially designed wooden pendant. How clever is that?

Find more spring stitching ideas in CrossStitcher's April issue, on sale 20th March. You can buy your copy from our online shop or click here to subscribe and get it delivered directly to your door.

It's no secret that here at CrossStitcher HQ we love butterflies and if anyone knows how to create a stylish set of winged beauties, it's cross stitch designer Jacqui Pearce.

She's created this set of gorgeous minty blue creatures for issue 251, CrossStitcher's colourburst issue, and we can't stop looking at them!

We popped our set into rustic painted frame and decided to hang one of them in a vibrant orange hoop for a quirky look.

If you fancy one for yourself, you'll be pleased to know you can download this single butterfly chart for free!

If you like this deisgn, you'll love Felicity Hall's butterfly wall hanger from issue 249...