Butterfly Lily in DMC - PAT0085 - Downloadable PDF

Butterfly Lily Embroidery Pattern by DMC – PAT0085

This free downloadable PDF embroidery pattern from DMC features a delicate Butterfly Lily design, part of the Butterflies series (also known as Papillons – Lily in French). It is an intermediate-level cross stitch project that combines classic counted cross stitch with backstitch detailing to create a charming, nature-inspired motif suitable for framing, hoop art, or embellishing textile projects.

What Is Being Made

The finished design depicts a Butterfly Lily motif worked in counted cross stitch on fabric. The completed embroidery measures approximately 13 x 7.5 cm on 28-count linen, making it a compact yet detailed piece. The pattern is presented bilingually in English and French, reflecting DMC's international heritage.

Techniques Used

• Counted Cross Stitch (Point de Croix): The primary technique used to fill the design. Each cross stitch is formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the centre, worked over the fabric grid by counting threads carefully to ensure accurate placement.
• Backstitch (Point Arrière): Used as an outline and detail technique over the completed cross stitch areas. Backstitch creates crisp, defined lines that add realism and fine detail to the butterfly and lily motif, particularly visible in the colour guide diagrams provided in the pattern.

Stitches Used

• Cross Stitch – worked using 2 strands of thread
• Backstitch – worked using 1 strand of thread in DMC colour 310 (Black)

Materials Required

The pattern is designed specifically for use with DMC Mouliné Spécial ART 117 stranded cotton embroidery floss. A total of seven colours are required, each needing one skein. The recommended needle is a No. 26 tapestry needle, and the recommended fabric is 28-count linen (approximately 11 threads per centimetre). Strand and skein counts given in the pattern are calculated specifically for this fabric count.

DMC Thread Colour Palette

• DMC 310 – used for both cross stitch and backstitch
• DMC 3705 – cross stitch
• DMC 783 – cross stitch
• DMC 300 – cross stitch
• DMC 3865 – cross stitch
• DMC 950 – cross stitch
• DMC 415 – cross stitch

Pattern Format and Contents

• Full technical chart with backstitch and a separate technical chart without backstitch for easier stitching reference
• A clear colour guide with symbols corresponding to each DMC thread colour
• Stitch and strand instructions in both English and French
• Delivered as a downloadable PDF – free of charge

This pattern is an excellent choice for intermediate embroiderers looking to build confidence with combined stitch techniques, or for experienced stitchers seeking a quick and rewarding project. The compact size and limited colour palette make it accessible without sacrificing the elegance and detail that DMC patterns are known for.