VDV Poppy Afternoon Cross Stitch Kit

As an experienced/advanced Cross-Stitcher, I chose this design for its simplicity ... as a change from my previous very technical challenge. Setting up / preparation has been more than imagined, very frustrating and definitely necessary (no short cuts!!) 1. The instructions for strand usage (the key/legend) were in Ukranian/Russian. A quick call to Stitcher and some googling, the details were translated 2. I prefer to work in black/white patterns but this only comes with 1 coloured pattern. It is tricky to see/mark what you've done. 3. As only 1 pattern provided, the outlining/back-stitching is included which can prove hard to find once you've marked off where you have worked. I had to photocopy everything just to ensure I kept the outlining for later use. 4. The strands come pre-cut and threaded onto cardboard holders BUT with just a number alongside. The design itself is done in colours and icons ... it takes a while to work out which thread you are looking for. 5. A picky little niggle ... the design is on shiny paper. I use an overhead light and this reflects off the paper, making some bits hard to see. I'm hoping, after many hours of prep, I can now enjoy working this design.