Cross Stitch Square Bear

Cross Stitch Square Bear by Linda Morris Tomlin

What is Being Made

The Cross Stitch Square Bear is a charming toy project designed by Linda Morris Tomlin through Linnypin Designs UK. This beginner-friendly craft creates a stuffed bear constructed from individual cross-stitched squares that are sewn together to form a three-dimensional toy. The finished bear combines traditional needlework with soft toy construction, making it an ideal project for crafters new to combining multiple techniques.

Craft and Primary Technique

While this pattern is categorized as a crochet project, the Cross Stitch Square Bear primarily utilizes cross stitch embroidery as its core construction method. Cross stitch is a counted needlework technique where X-shaped stitches are worked on canvas or evenweave fabric to create a design. The pattern requires working cross stitches in a grid formation, with each completed square measuring 6cm and containing 13 cross stitches by 13 cross stitch rows. This modular approach allows crafters to complete individual squares before assembling them into the final toy form.

Stitches Used

• Cross Stitch: The primary stitch used throughout the project, worked in rows of 13 stitches across 13 rows per square
• Back Stitch: A firm back stitch is used when sewing the completed squares together, worked with right sides facing to ensure secure assembly

Materials and Supplies Required

The Cross Stitch Square Bear requires the following materials for completion:

• Yarn: DK weight yarn for the cross stitch work
• Canvas: Evenweave canvas suitable for cross stitch, as specified in the pattern recommendations
• Sewing supplies: Sewing needle and thread for assembling the squares together
• Embellishments: Safety eyes for facial features and felt pieces for additional details
• Finishing materials: Ribbon for decorative accents

Difficulty Level and Suitability

Rated as a beginner level project, the Cross Stitch Square Bear is accessible to crafters new to cross stitch and toy making. The pattern provides detailed, easy-to-follow instructions designed to ensure an enjoyable making experience. Designer Linda Morris Tomlin offers direct support for any questions that may arise during the project, providing additional confidence for beginners undertaking this craft.

Construction Overview

The bear is constructed through a systematic process: individual squares are cross-stitched following the pattern grid, then assembled by sewing the squares together with right sides facing using a firm back stitch. The squares serve as guides during assembly, ensuring proper alignment and construction of the three-dimensional toy form.