Faces Of The Moon in DMC - PAT0752 - Downloadable PDF

Faces of the Moon Embroidery Pattern – Free Downloadable Cross Stitch Chart by DMC

The Faces of the Moon (Visages Lunaires) is a beautifully detailed cross stitch embroidery pattern published by DMC as a completely free downloadable PDF. This intermediate-level design captures the mystical, illustrative quality of lunar faces in a square format, making it an eye-catching project for embroiderers who are ready to move beyond beginner basics. The finished design measures 18.18 x 18.18 cm (7.15 x 7.15 inches) when stitched on the recommended 14-count Aida fabric.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a square embroidered artwork depicting stylised faces of the moon. The celestial theme and detailed linework make it well suited for framing as wall art, incorporating into a hoop display, or using as a decorative textile piece. The dual-language presentation (English and French) reflects the global reach of the DMC Library collection, from which this pattern originates.

Techniques Used

• Counted cross stitch – the primary technique, worked by counting threads on an even-weave fabric to place each X-shaped stitch precisely according to the colour chart provided
• Backstitch – used for outlining and adding fine detail to the design, giving the moon faces their characteristic crisp, illustrative edges

Cross stitch is a form of counted embroidery in which each stitch forms a small X over a set number of fabric threads. Backstitch is a linear stitch worked in a continuous line, ideal for defining outlines and adding text or delicate detail that full cross stitches cannot achieve on their own. The combination of both techniques is what gives this design its polished, graphic quality.

Stitches Used

• Full cross stitch – forms the main body of colour and shading throughout the design
• Quarter cross stitch (1/4 stitch) – referenced in the chart, allowing for smoother curves and more refined edges within the design
• Backstitch – used for outlining and fine detail work over the completed cross stitch areas

Materials Required

• DMC Mouliné Spécial Embroidery Thread (117MC) – the specified thread for this pattern; a high-quality, 6-strand divisible cotton floss available in a vast range of colours
• Cross stitch fabric / Aida – the pattern is sized based on 14-count Aida, the most widely used cross stitch fabric, offering 14 stitches per inch; higher-count fabrics will produce a smaller finished design
• Cross stitch needle – a blunt-tipped tapestry needle appropriate for the count of Aida being used
• Embroidery hoop – listed as optional but recommended for keeping fabric taut and stitches even during work
• Scissors – for trimming thread ends neatly

Difficulty Level and Who This Pattern Suits

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is ideal for embroiderers who are already comfortable with basic counted cross stitch and are looking to develop their skills with more complex colour charts and the addition of backstitch detailing. The DMC pattern notes suggest that complete beginners start with 14-count Aida, which is also the basis for the stated design dimensions — meaning this project is accessible to those who have completed a few beginner projects and are ready for a more ambitious and visually striking design.

Pattern Format and Availability

This is a free downloadable PDF available directly from the DMC Library at dmc.com. The chart is presented as a coloured cross stitch chart with backstitch diagram, making it straightforward to follow even for those not yet experienced with symbol-only charts. Finished work can be shared with the DMC community using #dmcthreads across Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and YouTube.