Hummingbird in DMC - PAT0390 - Downloadable PDF

Hummingbird Cross Stitch Pattern by Floss & Mischief x DMC (PAT0390) – Free Downloadable PDF

This Hummingbird cross stitch pattern is a beautiful collaboration between Floss & Mischief and DMC, available as a free downloadable PDF. Rated at an intermediate difficulty level, it offers a rewarding project for stitchers who have moved beyond the basics and are ready to tackle a detailed, nature-inspired design. The finished hummingbird motif measures approximately 11.8 x 9.6 cm (4.6 x 3.8 inches), making it a versatile piece suitable for framing, hoop art, or incorporation into a larger textile project.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a counted cross stitch design of a hummingbird, one of nature's most iconic and visually striking birds, celebrated for its iridescent plumage and dynamic hovering flight. This design captures those qualities in thread, making it an ideal decorative piece for the home or a thoughtful handmade gift. The finished size will vary depending on the fabric count chosen, giving stitchers some flexibility in how large or small they wish to render the design.

Techniques Used

• Counted cross stitch – the primary technique used throughout this pattern. Each stitch is placed according to a charted grid, with both a coloured chart and a black and white chart included in the PDF to suit different working preferences.
• Reading a cross stitch chart – stitchers follow a numbered or symbolled grid, counting threads on the fabric to place each cross stitch accurately. This is a core skill at the intermediate level.
• Hoop or frame mounting – while listed as optional in the pattern, using an embroidery hoop is a widely recommended technique to keep fabric taut and stitches even throughout the project.

Stitches Used

• Cross stitch – the foundational stitch of the entire design. Each cross stitch is formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the centre, worked over a set number of fabric threads to create the pixelated, grid-based image.

Materials Required

• DMC Mouliné Spécial embroidery thread (117MC) – the specified floss for this pattern. DMC Mouliné Spécial is a 6-strand divisible cotton thread, renowned worldwide for its extensive colour range, consistent dye quality, and smooth finish. Stitchers typically separate the strands and work with 2 strands for standard cross stitch on 14-count Aida.
• Cross stitch fabric / Aida cloth – the recommended ground fabric. The pattern notes that 14-count Aida is the most common choice and is particularly suitable for those newer to the craft. Higher counts (such as 18 or 28) will produce a smaller, finer design, while lower counts yield larger stitches.
• Cross stitch needle – a blunt-tipped tapestry needle is used for cross stitch, as it passes between fabric threads rather than piercing them, protecting the weave of the Aida cloth.
• Embroidery hoop – listed as optional but highly recommended to maintain even tension across the fabric during stitching.
• Scissors – a small, sharp pair of embroidery scissors for trimming thread ends neatly.

About the PDF Pattern

The downloadable PDF includes both a full-colour cross stitch chart and a black and white version, giving stitchers the choice of working from colour references or from symbols — a particularly useful feature when printing in greyscale. The pattern also includes a Getting Started section with guidance on materials and fabric count, making it accessible even to those approaching the intermediate level for the first time. As a free pattern from DMC, it represents excellent value and a wonderful introduction to the Floss & Mischief x DMC design collaboration.