Exterminate! - PDF Cross Stitch Pattern

Exterminate! – Dalek Cross Stitch PDF Pattern by HugSandwich

This downloadable PDF cross stitch pattern by independent designer HugSandwich (copyright B Pratt 2015) features an iconic Dalek design inspired by the classic science fiction series, complete with the legendary "Exterminate!" motif. The finished embroidery is a compact yet highly detailed portrait of one of fiction's most recognisable robots, making it a must-stitch for fans of the genre. The pattern is available exclusively through www.hugsandwich.shop and is intended for personal use only.

Design Specifications

• Grid size: 60W x 80H stitches
• Design area: 2.00" x 3.86" (28 x 54 stitches of actual design content)
• Recommended fabric: 14 Count Aida
• Difficulty level: Intermediate
• Format: Downloadable PDF, ready to print at home

What Is Being Made

Stitchers will create a detailed Dalek portrait rendered in cross stitch on Aida fabric. The design captures the Dalek's characteristic domed head, eyestalk, manipulator arm, and the distinctive rows of spherical protrusions along its lower body casing — all hallmarks of the creature's iconic silhouette. The compact finished size makes it ideal for framing, mounting in an embroidery hoop, or incorporating into a larger fan-art project.

Techniques Used

• Cross stitch – the primary technique, used to build up the full-colour Dalek image stitch by stitch across the 14 Count Aida grid
• Backstitch – used for outlining and adding fine detail and definition to the design, worked in DMC-310, DMC-318, DMC-680, DMC-869, and DMC-3371
• French knots – used as accent stitches for specific detail elements, worked in DMC-310 and DMC-415

Stitches Used

• Full cross stitch – the foundation stitch forming the body of the design
• Backstitch – a running outline stitch that sharpens edges and adds linework detail
• French knot – a looped knot stitch that creates small, raised dot accents on the surface of the fabric

Backstitch and French knots are intermediate-level techniques that require some prior embroidery experience, which is why this pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty. Beginners comfortable with basic cross stitch who are ready to practise outlining and knotting will find this a rewarding next step.

Thread and Materials

The pattern uses DMC stranded cotton embroidery floss throughout, with Anchor (ANC) and Coats/JPC thread equivalents provided in the legend for stitchers who prefer alternative brands. The full palette of thirteen thread colours is listed below:

• DMC-310 (Black) – used for cross stitch, backstitch, and French knots
• DMC-318 (Steel Grey, Light) – used for backstitch detail
• DMC-415 (Pearl Grey) – used for cross stitch and French knots
• DMC-680 (Old Gold, Dark) – used for cross stitch and backstitch
• DMC-712 (Cream) – used for cross stitch
• DMC-729 (Old Gold, Medium) – used for cross stitch
• DMC-830 (Golden Olive, Dark) – used for cross stitch
• DMC-869 (Hazelnut Brown, Very Dark) – used for cross stitch and backstitch
• DMC-996