Point de marque 4.1 in DMC - PAT0541 - Downloadable PDF

Point de Marque 4.1 by Thérèse de Dillmont – DMC Marking Stitch 4th Series Cross Stitch Pattern (Free PDF)

This free downloadable PDF pattern is part of the prestigious DMC Library (Bibliothèque DMC) collection and presents the 4th Series of Marking Stitch / Point de Marque, a classic embroidery tradition curated by the renowned needlework authority Thérèse de Dillmont. Marking stitch embroidery has deep roots in European textile heritage, historically used to monogram linens, samplers, and household items with elegant lettered and decorative motifs. This pattern continues that tradition in a beautifully charted, beginner-accessible format.

What Is Being Made

The pattern provides a coloured cross stitch chart (Diagramme Point de Croix en couleurs) alongside a corresponding black-and-white symbol chart, covering Spread / Planche No. 1 of the 4th Series. The designs are marking stitch motifs — the type of counted cross stitch patterns traditionally used for monogramming, samplers, and decorative needlework. Stitchers can use these charts to embroider letters, borders, or ornamental repeat designs onto fabric, creating personalised linens, framed samplers, or decorative textile pieces.

Techniques Used

• Counted cross stitch – the primary technique throughout the pattern, worked by counting threads on an evenweave fabric and placing stitches precisely according to the chart grid
• Marking stitch (Point de Marque) – a traditional form of cross stitch embroidery used historically for monogramming and sampler work, following a long-established European needlework tradition
• Chart reading – the pattern includes both a coloured diagram and a symbol-based diagram, allowing stitchers to follow whichever format they find clearest

Stitches Used

• Cross stitch – the sole stitch used in this pattern, formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the centre to create an X shape; each cross corresponds to one square on the chart grid and one block of Aida fabric

Cross stitch is one of the most approachable embroidery stitches, making this pattern well-suited to beginner embroiderers who are learning to read charts and work with counted thread techniques. The structured grid of Aida fabric makes it easy to keep stitches even and consistent.

Materials Referenced

Embroidery Thread

• DMC Mouliné Spécial embroidery thread (reference 117MC) – the pattern specifically calls for this iconic stranded cotton thread from DMC, which is divisible into individual strands, allowing stitchers to adjust coverage and texture as needed

Fabric

• Aida cross stitch fabric (Toile Aida) – the recommended ground fabric, an evenweave cloth with a clearly defined block-and-hole structure that makes counting and placing stitches straightforward, ideal for beginners

Pattern Format and Accessibility

This pattern is offered as a free, downloadable PDF published by DMC under their DMC Library series. It is presented in a bilingual format, with instructions and labels provided in both English and French, reflecting the international heritage of the DMC brand and the influence of Thérèse de Dillmont, whose encyclopaedic needlework publications have guided generations of embroiderers. The pattern is rated as beginner difficulty, making it an excellent starting point for those new to counted cross stitch or marking stitch traditions.