Saturn and Jupiter in DMC - PAT0246 - Downloadable PDF

Saturn and Jupiter Cross Stitch Pattern by DMC – PAT0246

This free downloadable PDF embroidery pattern from DMC invites stitchers to recreate two iconic planets from our solar system — Saturn and Jupiter — in a charming, compact cross stitch design. Titled Outer Space – Saturn and Jupiter (also presented in French as L'espace – Saturne et Jupiter), this pattern is part of DMC's creative range of themed needlework charts and is perfectly suited to beginner embroiderers looking for an approachable yet visually rewarding project.

What Is Being Made

The finished piece depicts Saturn and Jupiter as colourful, stylised cross stitch illustrations — a wonderful choice for anyone with an interest in astronomy, space-themed décor, or simply a love of bold, graphic needlework. The completed design measures 7 x 7 cm (approximately 2¾ x 2¾ inches) when stitched on the recommended fabric, making it a small and satisfying project that can be framed, mounted in an embroidery hoop, used as a patch, or incorporated into a larger textile project.

Because both planets are included within a single chart, stitchers receive two distinct planetary designs in one download — each with its own recognisable characteristics. Saturn, famous for its rings, and Jupiter, known for its banded, stormy appearance, are rendered in the vivid, reliable colours that DMC Mouliné Spécial thread is celebrated for worldwide.

Techniques Used

• Cross Stitch: The primary technique used throughout this pattern is the classic cross stitch, one of the oldest and most widely practised forms of counted embroidery. Each cross stitch is formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the centre, worked over a set number of fabric threads or Aida squares. The pattern is presented as a coloured cross stitch chart, meaning each symbol or coloured square on the grid corresponds to a specific DMC Mouliné Spécial thread colour, making it straightforward to follow even for those new to the craft.
• Backstitch: In addition to cross stitch, the pattern incorporates backstitch for detail and definition. Backstitch is a simple line stitch worked by bringing the needle back to the previous stitch entry point, creating a continuous, solid outline. In cross stitch projects, backstitch is commonly used to add crisp outlines, fine details, and lettering that cross stitch alone cannot achieve. The chart includes a dedicated backstitch diagram to guide stitchers clearly through these additional details.

Stitches Used

• Cross Stitch – the foundational stitch forming the body of both planetary designs
• Backstitch – used for outlining and adding fine detail to the finished designs

Materials Required

Thread

The pattern calls for DMC Mouliné Spécial embroidery thread (117MC), the brand's iconic six-strand divisible cotton floss. DMC Mouliné Spécial is renowned for its colourfastness, sheen, and extensive colour range, making it the industry standard for cross stitch and embroidery worldwide. The coloured chart indicates exactly which DMC thread colours are needed to recreate the Saturn and Jupiter designs accurately.

Fabric

The pattern is designed to be stitched on Aida cross stitch fabric. Aida is a specialist evenweave cotton fabric with an open, grid-like weave that makes it easy to count stitches and insert the needle cleanly. The design size of 7 x 7 cm is based on 14-count Aida, which means there are 14 stitches per inch — the most widely available count and the one DMC specifically recommends for beginners. Stitchers may choose a different count of Aida to alter the finished size: a higher count produces smaller stitches and a smaller design, while a lower count results in larger stitches and a bigger finished piece.

Needles and Tools

• Cross stitch needle – a blunt-tipped tapestry needle sized appropriately for the chosen Aida count (typically a size 24 or 26 for 14-count Aida)