Meant To Be Together - PDF

Meant To Be Together – Cross Stitch Embroidery Pattern by Kooler Design Studio

Meant To Be Together (KDS# 1263) is a charming counted cross stitch embroidery design created by Linda Gillum for Kooler Design Studio, Inc. Released as part of the Kooler Classic Charts collection, this downloadable PDF pattern is perfectly suited for stitchers who want to create a beautiful handmade decoration with a romantic or sentimental theme. The design is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those who are new to counted cross stitch as well as experienced needleworkers looking for an enjoyable, accessible project.

About the Design

This pattern is intended to be stitched as a decorative piece, ideal for display in the home or as a heartfelt handmade gift. The title Meant To Be Together suggests a romantic or celebratory theme, making it a wonderful choice for weddings, anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or any occasion that celebrates love and togetherness. The design has a generous stitch count of 123 stitches wide by 214 stitches high, giving it a tall, portrait-style composition with plenty of detail and visual interest.

Finished Size Options

One of the great advantages of counted cross stitch is the ability to adjust the finished size simply by choosing a different fabric count. The pattern provides the following finished dimensions depending on the fabric count used:

• 10 Count fabric: approximately 12¼ inches wide × 21½ inches high
• 14 Count fabric: approximately 8¾ inches wide × 15¼ inches high
• 16 Count fabric: approximately 7⅝ inches wide × 13⅜ inches high
• 18 Count fabric: approximately 6¾ inches wide × 11⅞ inches high

As recommended in the pattern, stitchers should add 4 to 6 inches to each measurement when cutting their fabric to allow adequate margins for framing or finishing.

Recommended Materials and Fabric

The design is specified to be stitched on 14 Count White Aida cloth, which is the most commonly used fabric for counted cross stitch and an ideal choice for beginners. Aida cloth features an easy-to-see woven grid that guides each stitch placement, making it straightforward to follow the chart accurately. Stitchers who prefer a finer or more open look may choose to work on 16 or 18 count Aida, or even evenweave linen, while those who prefer a larger, bolder finish can opt for 10 count fabric.

The pattern uses embroidery floss as the primary thread material. A full floss and symbol listing is included within the PDF, allowing stitchers to gather all necessary colors before beginning. The specific thread colors are charted with corresponding symbols for easy reference throughout the stitching process.

Stitches and Techniques Used

This pattern incorporates several classic counted cross stitch techniques, making it a well-rounded project that builds a variety of foundational embroidery skills:

• Full Cross Stitches: Worked using 3 strands of embroidery floss, full cross stitches form the main body of the design, filling in color and creating the overall image.
• Quarter Stitches (¼ Stitches): Also worked with 3 strands of floss, quarter stitches are used to add detail and refine curved or diagonal edges within the design, giving it a smoother, more polished appearance.
• Backstitching: Worked with just 1 strand of floss, backstitching is used to outline shapes, add definition, and bring fine details to life. This technique involves stitching backward along a line to create a continuous, solid outline.
• French Knots: Worked with 1 strand of floss, French knots are small, raised decorative stitches that add texture and dimension to the finished piece. They are commonly used to represent small dots, flower centers, eyes, or decorative accents.

Understanding the Stitch Techniques

Counted cross stitch is a form of hand embroidery in which stitches are made over a counted grid of fabric threads or A