Aloha in DMC - PAT0490 - Downloadable PDF

Aloha Embroidery Pattern by Jess Phoenix x DMC (PAT0490) – Free Downloadable PDF

The Aloha pattern is a free downloadable embroidery PDF created through a collaboration between artist Jess Phoenix and DMC. Designed for intermediate embroiderers, this project brings a vibrant, tropical-inspired design to life using classic hand embroidery techniques. The pattern is part of the DMC Library / Bibliothèque DMC collection and is available at no cost, making it an excellent choice for stitchers looking to develop their skills with guidance from a trusted, globally recognised thread brand.

What Is Being Made

The finished piece is a decorative hand embroidery design with a tropical or Hawaiian-inspired aesthetic, as suggested by the title Aloha. The design is intended as a standalone embroidered artwork, suitable for framing or displaying as a finished hoop piece. The colour guide included in the PDF reveals a rich palette spread across multiple colour references, indicating a detailed, multi-toned composition with considerable visual depth and complexity.

Techniques Used

• Long and short stitch (passé empiétant) – This is the primary technique specified in the pattern instructions. Long and short stitch is a classic embroidery method used to fill large areas with smooth, blended colour transitions. Stitches of alternating lengths are worked in rows, with each subsequent row interlocking into the previous one. This technique is particularly well suited to rendering naturalistic shapes such as petals, leaves, and organic forms, making it ideal for a tropical floral or nature-inspired design like Aloha.

The pattern includes both a colour guide / diagramme en couleur and a technical chart / diagramme, providing stitchers with clear visual references for colour placement and stitch direction across the full design.

Stitches Used

• Long and short stitch – the core filling stitch used throughout the design to achieve smooth colour blending and realistic shading across the embroidered motifs.

Colours and Materials

The pattern uses DMC embroidery threads, with the colour guide referencing a range of specific shade codes across the design. The colour references visible in the PDF include designations such as A3, A4, A8, A10, B1, B3, B5, B6, B7, B8, B9, representing the various DMC thread colours required to complete the piece. The number of strands and skeins needed is calculated within the instructions to help stitchers prepare their materials accurately before beginning.

As is standard for DMC embroidery projects, the pattern is designed to be worked with DMC stranded cotton embroidery floss on an embroidery fabric ground, using an embroidery needle appropriate for the number of strands specified. A hoop or frame is recommended to keep the fabric taut and ensure even, consistent stitching throughout the project.

Pattern Format and Accessibility

The Aloha pattern is delivered as a downloadable PDF and is completely free of charge. It is presented bilingually in English and French, reflecting DMC's international audience. The PDF spans multiple pages and includes the colour diagram, technical chart, and written instructions, giving intermediate embroiderers everything they need to recreate this Jess Phoenix x DMC design. Finished pieces can be shared with the DMC community using the hashtag #dmcthreads across social media platforms.