DMC Magnolia and Pears Still Life Embroidery Pattern - PAT2005 - Downloadable PDF

DMC Magnolia and Pears Still Life Embroidery Pattern (PAT2005)

This free downloadable PDF embroidery pattern from the DMC Library invites stitchers to recreate a beautifully composed still life featuring magnolia blooms and pears — a classic nature morte subject rendered in thread. The finished design measures approximately 16.5 cm x 13.5 cm, making it a satisfying yet manageable project for those building their embroidery skills.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a hand-embroidered still life composition depicting magnolia flowers and pears. This type of botanical and still life embroidery has a long tradition in needlework, combining naturalistic shading with elegant stitch placement to capture the soft petals of magnolia blossoms alongside the rounded forms of ripe pears. The result is a frameable textile artwork suitable for home décor or as a gift.

Techniques Used

• Satin Stitch (Passé Plat): The primary filling technique used throughout the design. Satin stitch involves laying parallel threads closely together across a shape to create a smooth, lustrous surface. It is ideal for rendering the soft petals of magnolia flowers and the curved surfaces of pears with a polished, almost painted appearance.
• Backstitch (Point Arrière): Used for outlining and adding fine detail. Backstitch creates a continuous, solid line and is one of the most versatile and foundational embroidery stitches, perfect for defining edges, adding stems, or introducing delicate linework into a botanical composition.
• Transfer Technique: The pattern includes instructions for transferring the design onto fabric using either a magic sheet or a transfer pen, ensuring accurate placement of the motif before stitching begins.

Stitches Used

• Satin Stitch — designated by code letter A in the pattern's technical chart
• Backstitch — used for outlines and detail work

Materials Referenced

• Thread: DMC Eco Vita Naturally Dyed Organic Wool Thread — a sustainably produced, naturally dyed organic wool thread. The pattern specifies colour code 006, with the number of skeins calculated for the stated design size. The use of organic wool thread gives the finished piece a soft, matte texture distinct from standard cotton embroidery floss.
• Needle: A needle in sizes No. 1–5 is recommended, appropriate for working with wool thread on embroidery fabric.
• Fabric: A suitable embroidery fabric (toile) is required; the specific fabric type is left to the stitcher's preference.
• Transfer Tools: A magic sheet or transfer pen is listed as part of the toolkit for applying the design to fabric.

Pattern Details

• Brand: DMC
• Format: Downloadable PDF — free to access
• Difficulty Level: Advanced Beginner — suitable for those who have a basic grasp of embroidery and are ready to practise smooth satin stitch filling and clean backstitch outlining
• Design Size: 16.5 cm x 13.5 cm
• Language: Bilingual — instructions provided in both English and French

The DMC Magnolia and Pears Still Life pattern (PAT2005) is part of the broader DMC Library collection of free embroidery resources. It is an excellent project for stitchers looking to develop their satin stitch technique while working with the distinctive qualities of DMC Eco Vita organic wool thread, a material that reflects DMC's commitment to more sustainable craft supplies.