Let's Decorate in DMC - PAT0877 - Downloadable PDF

Let's Decorate – DMC Cross Stitch Embroidery Pattern (PAT0877)

Let's Decorate is a free, downloadable PDF embroidery pattern from the DMC Library collection, designed specifically with beginner embroiderers in mind. The pattern presents a festive, decorative cross stitch design measuring 8.5 x 13.5 cm (3.34 x 5.39 inches) when stitched on the recommended fabric, making it an approachable and satisfying project for those just starting out with counted cross stitch.

What Is Being Made

This pattern guides stitchers through creating a colourful decorative embroidery piece titled Let's Decorate. While the PDF is bilingual (English and French), the design itself is a charming, compact composition ideal for framing, greeting cards, or small home décor projects. Its modest size and limited colour palette make it a perfect first project or a quick make for more experienced stitchers looking for a relaxing, low-commitment design.

Techniques Used

• Cross Stitch (Point de Croix): The primary technique used throughout the design. Cross stitch involves forming small X-shaped stitches on an even-weave or Aida fabric by bringing the needle up and down through the fabric in a consistent diagonal pattern. Each cross is formed over one or two fabric threads, depending on the count of the fabric chosen.
• Backstitch (Point Arrière): Used to add fine detail, outlines, and definition to the finished design. Backstitch creates a continuous line of stitches and is typically worked after the cross stitch is complete. It gives the embroidery a crisper, more polished appearance and helps define shapes and lettering within the design.

Stitches Used

• Full Cross Stitch – worked using 2 strands of embroidery thread throughout the main body of the design
• Backstitch – worked for outlines and detail work, adding definition and contrast to the coloured cross stitch areas

Colours Used

The pattern uses five colours of DMC Mouliné Spécial Étoile™ Embroidery Thread, each requiring one skein. The colours specified in the pattern are:

• C890
• C666
• C699
• C816
• C321

This warm, rich palette of reds and greens suggests a festive or seasonal theme, making the design well-suited to holiday decorating or gifting projects.

Materials Required

• DMC Mouliné Spécial Étoile™ Embroidery Thread – one skein each of the five listed colours, used with 2 strands throughout
• Cross Stitch Fabric / Aida: The pattern recommends 14-count Aida for beginners, which is the most widely available and easiest to work with. The design size stated (8.5 x 13.5 cm) is based on 14-count Aida. Choosing a higher-count fabric will result in a smaller finished design, while a lower count will produce a larger one.
• Cross Stitch Needle: A blunt-tipped tapestry needle appropriate for the chosen fabric count
• Embroidery Hoop: Optional but recommended to keep fabric taut and stitches even while working
• Scissors

Who Is This Pattern For?

This pattern is rated as beginner level and is an excellent introduction to counted cross stitch. The use of only two stitch types — cross stitch and backstitch — means that no advanced techniques are required. The coloured chart format, combined with the clear symbol legend, makes it straightforward to follow even for those who have never attempted cross stitch before. As a free downloadable PDF from DMC, one of the world's most trusted names in embroidery, it offers exceptional value and accessibility for crafters of all backgrounds.