Blue Works - PDF

Blue Works Cross Stitch Pattern – KDS# 1427 by Kooler Design Studio

Blue Works is a decorative cross stitch design created by Sandy Orton and published by Kooler Design Studio, Inc. under catalog number KDS# 1427. Released in 2012, this intermediate-level embroidery pattern is part of the Kooler Classic Charts collection and is available as a downloadable PDF, making it instantly accessible for stitchers eager to begin their next project.

About the Design

True to its name, Blue Works is a decorative piece intended as a finished home decoration or display embroidery. The design carries the signature style of Kooler Design Studio, known for producing charted needlework that balances visual impact with achievable technique. With a stitch count of 83 wide by 86 high, the finished piece is compact yet detailed, making it an excellent choice for framing, mounting, or incorporating into a decorative accent.

Finished Size Options

One of the practical advantages of this pattern is its versatility across different fabric counts. Depending on the fabric count chosen, the finished design dimensions will vary:

• 10 Count fabric: approximately 8¼ inches wide by 8½ inches high
• 14 Count fabric: approximately 5⅞ inches wide by 6⅛ inches high
• 16 Count fabric: approximately 5⅛ inches wide by 5⅜ inches high
• 18 Count fabric: approximately 4⅝ inches wide by 4¾ inches high

The pattern recommends adding 4 to 6 inches to each measurement when cutting your fabric, ensuring adequate border space for framing or finishing.

Recommended Fabric

The design is specifically charted and intended to be stitched on 14 Count White Aida cloth. Aida is the most widely used fabric in counted cross stitch, prized for its evenly woven, easy-to-count grid structure. Its stiff, open weave makes it ideal for beginners and intermediate stitchers alike, though this pattern is rated at an intermediate difficulty level, suggesting the design includes enough color changes and detail to engage experienced needleworkers.

Stitches Used

The Blue Works pattern employs two fundamental embroidery techniques common in counted cross stitch:

• Full Cross Stitches: The primary stitch used to fill in the design. Each full cross stitch is formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the center, creating the characteristic X shape. These stitches build up the color blocks and overall composition of the piece.
• Backstitching: Used for outlining, detail work, and adding fine definition to the design. Backstitch creates clean, continuous lines that give the finished embroidery a crisp, polished appearance.

Thread and Floss Details

The pattern specifies the use of embroidery floss with precise strand counts for each stitch type:

• 3 strands of floss are used for all full cross stitches, providing good coverage and a rich, saturated color on 14 Count Aida.
• 1 strand of floss is used for all backstitching, keeping outlines fine and precise without overwhelming the cross stitch fill work.

The pattern includes a complete Floss and Symbol Listing, which maps each symbol on the chart to its corresponding floss color, allowing stitchers to gather their materials accurately before beginning. The title Blue Works strongly suggests the palette is centered around shades of blue, making this an ideal project for those decorating in cool, classic color schemes.

Tools and Materials Summary

• Fabric: 14 Count White Aida (other counts supported)
• Thread: Embroidery floss as specified in the Floss and Symbol Listing
• Needle: A standard tapestry needle appropriate for the chosen fabric count (typically a size 24 or 26 for 14 Count Aida)
• Stitch