The Choosing cross stitch chart

'Choosing' by George Frederic Watts.

This delicate yet sensuous portrait shows the seventeen-year-old Ellen Terry choosing between the camellias, which despite their luscious appearance have little scent, and the violets in her hand which are far humbler in appearance but smell sweeter. The choice, which is symbolic of that between worldly vanities and higher virtues, had a personal significance for the artist and the sitter. 1864 was the year in which Terry gave up the stage to marry Watts, thirty years her senior, and to be educated by him. The marriage lasted barely a year, and despite Watts's disapproval, Terry eventually returned to the stage.

Final design size is based on 18 count aida. No backstitching or fractional stitches.

Thread use:

310 Black

3371 Ebony

154 Prune rose

938 Espresso brown

934 Algae green

936 Oaktree moss green

3031 Dark Mocha brown

3021 Cliff grey

814 Deep wine red

3857 Dark red wine

898 Teak brown

300 Mahogany

801 Mink brown

839 Root brown

815 Cherry red

3777 Leather red

918 Dark red copper

433 Chocolate brown

400 Brown

975 Chestnut brown

730 Khaki green

829 Dark green bronze

831 Green bronze

3790 Cappuccino brown

610 Dark golden brown

869 Coffee brown

830 Green oak brown

611 Sisal brown

167 Dark mustard brown

919 Red copper

920 Ochre copper

780 Chestnut tree brown

420 Hazelnut

3826 Golden brown

782 Wicker brown

832 Light green bronze

3045 Coffee cream

3829 Ochre brown

680 Dark old gold

436 Teddy brown

3828 Oaktree brown

3064 Cinnamon brown

833 Brass

422 Light oak

437 Camel