Carnation Sampler - PDF

Carnation Sampler – Cross Stitch Pattern by Kooler Design Studio (KDS# 1220)

The Carnation Sampler is a charming counted cross stitch decoration pattern designed by Sandy Orton for Kooler Design Studio, published under catalog number KDS# 1220. This downloadable PDF chart is part of the Kooler Classic Chart series and is suited for embroiderers with an intermediate level of experience. The finished piece makes a beautiful decorative item, showcasing the timeless elegance of carnation florals rendered in the precise, grid-based language of counted cross stitch.

What Is Being Made

Stitchers will create a floral sampler decoration featuring carnation motifs. Samplers are a beloved tradition in embroidery, typically combining decorative elements — such as flowers, borders, and repeating motifs — into a single cohesive composition. The Carnation Sampler is designed to be framed or displayed as a finished decorative piece, making it an ideal project for home décor or as a handmade gift.

Design Dimensions and Stitch Count

The pattern has a stitch count of 89 stitches wide by 56 stitches high, giving crafters flexibility to work on a variety of fabric counts to achieve different finished sizes:

• 10 Count fabric: approximately 9 inches wide by 5½ inches high
• 14 Count fabric: approximately 6⅜ inches wide by 4 inches high
• 16 Count fabric: approximately 5½ inches wide by 3½ inches high
• 18 Count fabric: approximately 5 inches wide by 3⅛ inches high

As noted in the chart, stitchers should add 4 to 6 inches to each measurement when cutting their fabric to allow adequate border for framing or finishing.

Recommended Materials – Fabric

The design is specifically charted and recommended to be stitched on 14 Count White Aida cloth. Aida is the most popular fabric choice for counted cross stitch, featuring an even-weave construction with clearly defined holes that make it easy to place stitches accurately. The white colorway provides a bright, clean background that allows the carnation colors to stand out vividly. However, the stitch count information provided for multiple fabric counts means experienced stitchers can adapt the design to other even-weave or Aida fabrics as preferred.

Techniques Used

This is a counted cross stitch project, meaning stitchers follow a printed grid chart and count fabric threads to place each stitch in the correct position — no transfer or tracing is required. This method demands careful attention to counting and consistent tension, which is why the pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty. The sampler format itself is a classic technique in needlework history, traditionally used to practice and display a variety of stitching skills within a single piece.

Stitches Used

• Full Cross Stitches: The primary stitch used throughout the design. Each full cross stitch is worked using 3 strands of embroidery floss, as specified in the pattern instructions. Full cross stitches are formed by working two diagonal stitches over one another to create an X shape, filling in the design with color and texture.

The use of 3 strands on 14 Count Aida produces a well-covered, slightly textured finish that gives the carnation motifs a rich, full appearance. Stitchers working on higher-count fabrics may wish to adjust strand count accordingly for optimal coverage.

Materials – Embroidery Floss

The pattern includes a Floss and Symbol Listing that specifies the exact thread colors and their corresponding chart symbols. Embroidery floss — typically a 6-strand divisible cotton thread — is the standard material for counted cross stitch. The chart directs stitchers to separate and use 3 strands for all full stitches, which is the standard recommendation for 14 Count Aida to achieve solid, even coverage. Specific floss color numbers and brand references are detailed within the downloadable PDF chart.

About the Designer and Publisher

This pattern was designed by Sandy Orton and published by Kooler Design Studio, Inc