DMC Anemone - PAT1273 - Downloadable PDF

DMC Anemone Cross Stitch Pattern (PAT1273) – Free Downloadable PDF

The DMC Anemone pattern (PAT1273) is a beautifully detailed cross stitch embroidery design featuring the iconic anemone flower. This is a free downloadable PDF from DMC, one of the world's most trusted names in embroidery thread and needlework. Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, it is ideal for stitchers who are comfortable with the basics of cross stitch and are ready to add a little more complexity to their work through the use of backstitch detailing.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a coloured cross stitch design of an anemone flower, rendered in rich, botanical detail. The finished design measures 15.81 x 10.18 cm (6.22 x 4 inches) when stitched on the recommended fabric. The completed piece is suitable for framing, display in an embroidery hoop, or incorporation into a wide range of textile and home décor projects. The pattern is presented bilingually in both English and French, reflecting DMC's international heritage.

Techniques Used

• Cross Stitch: The primary technique used throughout this pattern. Cross stitch involves forming small X-shaped stitches on an even-weave or Aida fabric by working two diagonal stitches that cross at the centre. Each stitch occupies one square of the fabric grid, and the overall image is built up square by square following a colour-coded chart.
• Backstitch: Used to add fine outlines, definition, and detail to the finished design. Backstitch is a linear stitch worked by bringing the needle back to the end of the previous stitch, creating a continuous, unbroken line. In floral embroidery such as this, backstitch is commonly used to define petal edges, stems, and delicate details that cross stitch alone cannot capture at small scale.

Stitches Used

• Cross Stitch – the foundational stitch forming the body of the anemone design
• Backstitch – used for outlines and fine detail work throughout the composition

Materials Required

Thread

• DMC Mouliné Spécial Embroidery Thread (Art. 117MC): The pattern calls for DMC Mouliné Spécial, the brand's signature six-strand divisible cotton embroidery floss. This thread is renowned for its consistent colour, smooth finish, and wide palette, making it ideal for detailed cross stitch work. Specific colour codes are indicated on the chart.
• DMC Diamant Thread: In addition to the standard cotton floss, the pattern also incorporates DMC Diamant, a metallic embroidery thread that adds a subtle shimmer and luminosity to the design, enhancing the decorative quality of the finished piece.

Fabric

• DMC Aida 14-Count Fabric in Ecru (Art. 380): The recommended base fabric is 14-count Aida in Ecru. Aida is a specialist even-weave fabric with clearly defined holes and a grid-like structure that makes it easy to place stitches accurately. The 14-count designation means there are 14 stitches per inch, which is a popular choice for intermediate projects as it provides a good balance between stitch visibility and design detail. The ecru colourway provides a warm, neutral background that complements floral subject matter beautifully. As noted in the pattern, choosing a fabric with a higher count will produce a smaller finished design, while a lower count will result in a larger piece.

Tools

• Cross Stitch Needle: A blunt-tipped tapestry needle appropriate for cross stitch on Aida fabric
• Embroidery Hoop: Listed as optional but recommended for keeping fabric taut and stitches even during work
• Scissors: For trimming thread ends neatly

About the Pattern Format

The PAT1273 Anemone PDF includes a coloured cross stitch chart alongside a backstitch diagram, providing clear