Cats, dogs, horses, rabbits, budgies, guinea pigs, goldfish, rats and ferrets are just a few of the popular animals featured in this parade of pets in cross stitch. Over 40 popular breeds of dog and cat alone give the stitcher plenty of choice, whether they want a detailed portrait or a nose-to-tail likeness. Additional themed alphabets, fitting sentiments and cute motifs reflect the humorous side of being a cat or dog lover. Other pets are also represented, from the tiniest mice and goldfish to wide-eyed reptiles, mischievous ferrets and familiar farmyard friends. Advice is given on changing thread colour to match your subject, and many chart keys feature alternative colour combinations. Gift and keepsake ideas suggest how to display your prized pet's pictures

Claire Crompton studied knitwear design at college and designed patterns for handknitters before joining the design department of DMC. There she worked on designs for kits and publications. As a freelance her designs have appeared in cross stitching magazines and books. Claire has written two other books for David & Charles - Cross Stitch Card Collection and The Knitter's Bible (Oct 04) Claire lives in Gunnislake, Cornwall.