Apple Sampler - PDF

Apple Sampler Embroidery Pattern PDF by Kooler Design Studio

The Apple Sampler is a charming counted cross stitch decoration design created by Linda Gillum for Kooler Design Studio (pattern number KDS# 2480). Released as part of the Kooler Classic Charts collection, this downloadable PDF pattern is aimed at intermediate embroidery enthusiasts who want to create a decorative sampler featuring apple motifs. Whether displayed as framed wall art, a seasonal decoration, or a home accent, this piece brings a classic, timeless folk-art aesthetic to any space.

About the Design

The Apple Sampler is a single cohesive sampler design centered around apple imagery — a beloved motif in traditional needlework that evokes warmth, harvest themes, and cottage-style décor. As part of the Kooler Classic Charts line, this design reflects the clean, well-drafted charting style that Kooler Design Studio is known for, making it accessible to stitchers who have moved beyond beginner projects and are comfortable working with multi-color charts and moderate stitch counts.

The finished piece is intended as a decoration, making it ideal for framing, finishing as a pillow, or incorporating into seasonal home décor. The apple sampler format typically combines a central motif with coordinating border elements, text, or smaller accent images — all working together to create a unified, heirloom-quality piece.

Craft and Techniques Used

This pattern is an embroidery project, specifically designed for counted cross stitch — the primary technique used throughout the design. Counted cross stitch involves placing X-shaped stitches onto an evenweave or Aida fabric by following a charted grid, where each square on the chart corresponds to one stitch on the fabric. This method allows for precise, repeatable results and is well-suited to the structured, graphic quality of sampler-style designs.

Stitches Typically Used in This Style of Pattern

• Full cross stitch — the foundational stitch used to fill in the main design areas, including apple bodies, leaves, and background elements
• Backstitch — commonly used in sampler designs for outlining motifs, adding fine detail lines, and rendering lettering or borders with crisp definition
• French knots — often incorporated in classic sampler designs for decorative accents such as seeds, flower centers, or texture details
• Quarter and three-quarter stitches — may be used to achieve smoother curves on rounded forms such as apple shapes

Techniques Involved

• Counted charting — reading a color-coded grid chart and translating each symbol to a specific thread color
• Color management — working with multiple thread colors typical of a multi-motif sampler composition
• Sampler composition — understanding how individual motif elements, borders, and negative space work together in a traditional sampler layout

Materials Reference

As is standard for counted cross stitch patterns of this type, stitchers will need the following materials to complete the Apple Sampler:

• Evenweave fabric or Aida cloth — the ground fabric onto which the design is stitched; common counts include 14-count or 18-count Aida, or 28-count evenweave stitched over two threads
• Six-strand cotton embroidery floss — typically used with two strands for cross stitches and one strand for backstitching, following the color key provided in the chart
• Tapestry needle — a blunt-tipped needle with a large eye appropriate for embroidery floss on evenweave fabric; size 24 or 26 is standard for most Aida counts
• Embroidery hoop or frame — recommended to keep fabric taut and stitches even throughout the project

Pattern Format and Difficulty

The Apple Sampler PDF is a downloadable digital pattern, allowing for immediate access after purchase. The chart is published by Kooler Design Studio, Inc. and designed by Linda Gillum