We are a family business that produce a large range of needlecraft kits. The range contains more than 600 designs and includes cross-stitch, blackwork, hardanger, counted thread and embroidery.

Classic Embroidery started by producing a set of over 150 cross-stitch maps that cover amongst other things counties, countries, rivers, canals and long distance walks, but the growth of the company means that the maps are now less than half of what is on offer.

Through acquisitions and by working with a number of designers, recent emphasis has been to build on the popular 'extended' blackwork, that is, kits that start with blackwork techniques and then add additional impact and interest. In particular, a collaboration with Di Kaye, whose particular love is to paint in an art deco style, is proving to be a fruitful source of material and a number of blackwork and cross stitch kits, under the title of 'Deco Elegance', have been produced. These designs use metallic threads, beads, sequins and in some cases Swarovski crystals and add that 'wow' factor to the stitching. We are also continuing to work with Jill Cater Nixon to extend her very successful range of blackwork designs.

Most recently, the acquisition of Barbara Thompson Designs and the agreement to manufacture and distribute X-Calibre Designs have added significantly to our portfolio.

www.classicemb.co.uk

The map of Britain is illustrative of the style of our maps - small cross-stitch scenes from the area covered by the map.

Judy is our most recent art deco design developed from the artwork of Di Kaye. The popularity of Di's designs and of the art deco style means that we will continue to develop this range.

The Rooster is from X-Calibre Designs and shows perfectly how Carol Leather likes to explore the possibilities of blackwork. This is a challenging piece for the experienced stitcher.