Beautiful, but challenging.
There's a good deal of black backstitch outlining in this, which is nearly impossible to see on black fabric as you go. Don't allow yourself to get distracted, if you're keeping track by counting! I ended up leaving the previous stitch unpulled until I put the next one through.
Also, the instructions for the vine color are partially incorrect. They should read "702 - Christmas Green" (not Very Light Christmas Green).
Lastly, the quarter stitching on the Rs and Ss, for example, leaves quite a bit of black fabric showing. I have actually decided, after the design was "done," to go back and double-floss the backstitching just on the words to make them more legible. It's frustrating, but satisfying to see the words pop, as they should. If you look closely at the sample photo, it looks like they use 3/4 stitches, even though they recommend 1/4. I've found a system that will make the project worth the gift it is meant to be, but I would have been happier deciding to make that adjustment earlier, obviously.
by: Carolin on 7/30/2021