DMC Christmas Stockings Cross Stitch Pattern - PAT1646_2

DMC Christmas Stockings Cross Stitch Pattern (PAT1646_2) – Free Downloadable PDF

This free downloadable cross stitch pattern from DMC guides stitchers through creating a beautifully detailed Christmas stocking design — a timeless and festive project perfect for holiday decorating, gift-giving, or seasonal home décor. Published by DMC, one of the world's most trusted names in embroidery and needlework, this pattern is designed with beginner-level stitchers in mind, making it an ideal starting point for anyone new to cross stitch.

About the Design

The pattern features a classic Christmas stocking (chaussette de Noël in French, as the pattern is presented bilingually in English and French). The finished design measures approximately 16.54 cm × 16 cm (6.51″ × 6.29″) when stitched on the recommended 14-count Aida fabric. This is a charming, festive piece that captures the spirit of the holiday season and would look wonderful displayed on a mantelpiece or used as a decorative keepsake.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates two core embroidery techniques that are fundamental to cross stitch as a craft:

• Cross Stitch: The primary stitch used throughout the design. Each cross stitch is formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the centre, creating the characteristic X shape. On Aida fabric, each stitch occupies one clearly defined square, making it easy for beginners to follow the chart accurately.
• Backstitch: Used to add fine outlines, definition, and detail to the finished design. Backstitch creates clean, continuous lines that give the Christmas stocking its crisp, polished appearance and help individual elements stand out clearly against the background.

The pattern is presented as a coloured cross stitch chart with backstitch, meaning the chart itself uses colour-coded symbols to indicate which DMC thread colour should be used in each area — making it straightforward to follow even for complete beginners.

Techniques Explained

Cross stitch is one of the oldest and most accessible forms of embroidery. It is worked by counting squares on a gridded fabric and placing stitches according to a charted diagram. The use of Aida fabric — a woven cloth with an evenly spaced grid of holes — makes counting and placing stitches intuitive and consistent. The pattern notes that the higher the fabric count (i.e., the number of stitches per inch), the smaller the individual stitches and the resulting design will be. For this reason, 14-count Aida is specifically recommended as the most common and beginner-friendly option, and the stated design dimensions are based on this count.

Materials Required

• Thread: DMC Mouliné Spécial Thread, Art. 117 MC — the pattern calls for five different colours, with one skein of each required. Specific colour numbers are indicated on the chart's legend using symbols.
• Fabric: Cross stitch Aida fabric — 14-count Aida is recommended, particularly for beginners.
• Needle: A cross stitch needle (a blunt-tipped tapestry needle appropriate for counted cross stitch work).
• Embroidery Hoop: Listed as optional, but recommended to keep fabric taut and stitches even during work.
• Scissors: For trimming thread ends neatly.

Who Is This Pattern For?

Rated as a beginner level project, this DMC Christmas stocking pattern is well-suited to those who are new to cross stitch and looking for a manageable, rewarding seasonal project. The clear coloured chart, bilingual instructions, and use of straightforward stitches make it accessible without being overly simplistic. Experienced stitchers will also appreciate it as a quick and satisfying holiday make. As a free, instantly downloadable PDF, it offers excellent value and can be printed at home and referenced at any time.

This pattern is © 2021 DMC, all rights reserved worldwide, and is available through the DMC Library (bibliothèque DMC).