The couching stitch is one of the easiest embroidery stitches. One thread is laid out on the fabric. Another thread (the same color, or a contrasting color) is used to tack it down in place.

The fabric, thread, and needles should be of high quality to ensure that the finished product looks beautiful and lasts for years to come. After researching and testing various cross stitch kits ...

The author is an Afghanistan-based female journalist, trained with Finnish support before the Taliban take-over. Her identity is withheld for security reasons ...