Embroidery
Cross Stitch Patterns
Free cross stitch patterns with real charts: small motifs like strawberries, toadstools and Christmas trees, each with a floss key, stitch counts and the finished size on 14-count aida.
Red Mushroom Cross Stitch Pattern (Free Chart)
Strawberry Cross Stitch Pattern (Free Mini Chart)
About this collection
Reading the chart. Each square is one cross stitch, and each symbol is one colour from the key. The red arrows at the edges point to the centre: start stitching there so the design sits in the middle of your fabric.
Working out the size. Divide the number of stitches by the count of your fabric. A design 15 stitches wide is just over 1 inch on 14-count aida and a little under 1 inch on 16-count, so the same chart can make an ornament or a card.
Neat crosses. Stitch rows of half stitches in one direction and come back to finish them, so every top stitch slants the same way. Two strands of floss cover 14-count aida nicely.
Small and quick. These minis fit a 3 or 4 inch hoop and make great ornaments and gifts. For freehand embroidery, see Hand Embroidery Patterns.
Questions about cross stitch
What do I need to start cross stitch?
A piece of 14-count aida, a tapestry needle (size 24), stranded cotton floss, a hoop and small scissors.
How do I work out the finished size of a cross stitch?
Divide the number of stitches by the fabric count. A design 70 stitches wide on 14-count aida is 70 / 14 = 5 in wide.
How many strands do I use for cross stitch?
Two strands on 14-count aida, one or two on 16 or 18-count, and three on 11-count.
Should cross stitch be worked in rows or one stitch at a time?
Work rows of half stitches in one direction and come back to complete them. All the top stitches should slant the same way.
