Avlea Folk Embroidery Grecian Urn 2 - Downloadable PDF

Avlea Folk Embroidery Grecian Urn 2 – Embroidery Pattern by Krista West

The Avlea Folk Embroidery Grecian Urn 2 is a downloadable PDF embroidery pattern designed by Krista West of Avlea Folk Embroidery. It celebrates the rich tradition of Greek folk embroidery, presenting a beautifully composed urn-and-flower design that draws directly from historical Grecian textile arts. The finished embroidery measures 6-3/4 x 8-3/4 inches and spans 92 x 109 stitches, making it an achievable and rewarding project for beginner embroiderers venturing into counted thread work.

About the Design

This pattern is part of a delightful series showcasing the many Greek folk embroidery designs that traditionally feature urns and flowers. Historically, these designs were used for double-ended table runners, and as a nod to that heritage, they are typically grounded by a horizontal border formed of small geometric patterns and repeating colors. In the Grecian Urn 2 design specifically, that traditional border has been reimagined as a decorative frame, making the piece ideally suited for framing or display as a wall hanging or pillow.

The floral elements within the design are inspired by both Greek and Persian folk art traditions. The flower sprays feature charming roses, daisies, and Persian-inspired carnations, all arranged around the central urn motif. The result is an intricate yet approachable composition full of folk art character and historical depth.

Techniques Used

This is a counted thread embroidery pattern, meaning the design is worked by counting threads on an evenweave fabric rather than following a printed or stamped outline. This technique is closely related to cross-stitch and other counted needlework traditions, and it produces precise, repeatable results. It is an excellent introduction to the broader world of folk embroidery for beginners, while still offering the visual richness that experienced stitchers appreciate.

• Counted thread embroidery – the primary technique, worked on evenweave fabric by counting individual threads
• Geometric border patterns – small repeating motifs that frame the central urn design, referencing traditional Greek textile construction
• Floral folk motifs – roses, daisies, and carnations rendered in a traditional Grecian and Persian-influenced style

Stitches Used

As a counted thread embroidery pattern in the Greek folk tradition, the design relies on the structured, grid-based stitches characteristic of this needlework style. The pattern is worked on 26-count evenweave fabric, which provides the fine grid necessary for accurate stitch placement and crisp detail in the geometric and floral elements.

Materials Required

• Fabric: One piece of 26-count counted thread fabric, cut to 13 x 15-1/2 inches
• Thread (floss): The pattern calls for DMC-style six-strand embroidery floss in the following colors and quantities:
  • 224 shell pink – 2 yards
  • 347 coral – 3 yards
  • 469 green – 2 yards
  • 598 turquoise – 3 yards
  • 924 teal – 6 yards
  • 815 garnet – 2 yards
  • 832 olive – 1 yard

Finishing Options

The Grecian Urn 2 PDF pattern includes directions and supply lists for three finishing options, giving stitchers flexibility in how they display or use their completed embroidery:

• Framed textile – mount and display the finished piece as a framed work of art
• Pillow