Hellebore in DMC - PAT0676 - Downloadable PDF

DMC Hellebore Cross Stitch Pattern (PAT0676) – Free Downloadable PDF

This free downloadable PDF pattern from the DMC Library features a beautifully detailed Hellebore (Ellébore) floral design rendered in coloured cross stitch with backstitch. The hellebore, sometimes called the Christmas or Lenten rose, is a favourite subject in botanical embroidery thanks to its elegant, nodding blooms and rich, jewel-toned petals — qualities that translate exceptionally well into counted cross stitch. This intermediate-level design is ideal for embroiderers who are comfortable with basic cross stitch and are ready to add refined detail work through backstitch outlining.

What Is Being Made

The finished piece is a coloured cross stitch embroidery of a hellebore flower, worked from a charted diagram. The design captures the botanical character of the hellebore bloom, making it suitable for framing, mounting, or incorporating into a larger decorative project. The pattern is presented as a cross stitch chart with a backstitch diagram, giving stitchers clear guidance for both the filled colour areas and the fine linear detail work.

Techniques Used

• Cross Stitch (Point de Croix): The primary technique used to fill the design with colour. 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 coloured chart guides placement of each shade.
• Backstitch (Point Arrière): Used to add fine outlines, detail, and definition to the hellebore motif. Backstitch is worked after the cross stitch areas are complete and gives the design a crisp, illustrated quality. A separate backstitch diagram is included in the PDF to guide this stage.
• Quarter Cross Stitch (1/4 Stitch): The PDF references quarter stitches, which are used to refine curved edges and create smoother outlines within the design, adding a more naturalistic, botanical feel to the finished embroidery.

Stitches Used

• Full Cross Stitch – the foundation stitch filling colour areas across the chart
• Backstitch – for outlining and fine detail, as shown in the dedicated backstitch diagram
• Quarter Cross Stitch (1/4 stitch) – for refined edges and curved forms within the motif

Materials Required

• DMC Mouliné Spécial Embroidery Thread (117MC): The pattern is specifically designed for use with DMC Mouliné Spécial stranded cotton thread. This is a six-strand divisible thread, and stitchers will typically use two strands for cross stitch and one strand for backstitch, though the chart should be consulted for specific guidance.
• Cross Stitch Fabric / Aida (Toile Aida): The design is worked on Aida fabric, a specialist evenweave cloth with a regular grid of holes that makes counting and placing stitches straightforward. Aida is available in various counts (e.g., 14-count, 16-count, 18-count); a finer count will produce a smaller, more detailed finished piece.
• Cross Stitch Needle: A blunt-tipped tapestry needle is required, sized appropriately to the count of Aida fabric chosen. The blunt tip glides through the fabric holes without splitting the weave.

Pattern Format and Skill Level

This pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty, making it well suited to stitchers who have moved beyond beginner projects and are comfortable reading a colour chart, managing thread changes, and working backstitch detail. The inclusion of both a coloured cross stitch chart and a separate backstitch diagram ensures that stitchers at this level have all the visual reference they need to complete the design confidently.

As a free pattern from the DMC Library, this PDF can be downloaded at no cost and printed for personal use. DMC is one of the world's most recognised names in embroidery thread, and their library patterns are known for their clear charting and reliable colour references. Finished pieces can be shared with the DMC community using #dmcthreads across social platforms.