BTS DNA - PDF Cross Stitch Pattern

BTS DNA Cross Stitch Pattern by HugSandwich – Detailed Pattern Summary

This is a downloadable PDF cross stitch pattern designed by HugSandwich, inspired by BTS – DNA, the iconic K-pop music video and song. The pattern is listed as beginner difficulty, making it an accessible and rewarding project for those new to counted cross stitch as well as a quick, satisfying stitch for more experienced embroiderers. The finished design is a fan-art tribute piece intended for personal use only, as noted explicitly in the pattern itself.

What Is Being Made

The completed project is a small, decorative counted cross stitch embroidery piece celebrating BTS – DNA. At 6.21 inches wide by 3.43 inches tall (87 stitches wide by 48 stitches tall), this is a compact, portrait-style design that works beautifully as a framed mini artwork, a card insert, or a decorative hoop piece. Its modest stitch count makes it ideal for beginners looking to complete a recognizable, pop-culture-themed project without committing to a large or complex canvas.

Techniques Used

• Counted cross stitch – The primary and foundational technique. Each symbol on the chart corresponds to a specific thread color placed over a counted number of fabric threads, building up the image stitch by stitch.
• Symbol-based chart reading – The PDF uses a grid filled with a variety of distinct symbols (such as ª, ±, T, J, Φ, ¢, U, N, b, æ, Õ, q, ê, Â, H, and many others), each representing a different floss color. Learning to read a symbol chart is a core skill in counted cross stitch and is well within beginner reach.
• Color blending and shading – The large number of distinct symbols visible in the chart suggests a moderately varied color palette, which creates visual depth and detail in the finished piece despite its small overall size.

Stitches Used

• Full cross stitch (X stitch) – The standard stitch of the craft, formed by crossing two diagonal stitches over one fabric square. This is the dominant stitch used throughout the design to fill in color areas and build the overall image.
• The pattern may also incorporate partial or fractional stitches to achieve smoother curves and finer detail at the edges of design elements, which is common in designs of this style and stitch count.

Materials – Fabric

The pattern is specifically designed for 14-count Aida cloth, which is the most widely recommended fabric for beginner cross stitchers. Aida is a stiff, evenly woven fabric with clearly visible holes that guide needle placement, making it easy to count stitches accurately. The 14-count designation means there are 14 stitches per linear inch, which produces a clean, medium-scale finish at the stated design dimensions of 6.21" × 3.43". Stitchers who prefer a finer or larger result may substitute 18-count or 11-count Aida respectively, adjusting the finished size accordingly.

Materials – Thread and Needles

• Embroidery floss – Standard six-strand cotton embroidery floss is the appropriate thread for this pattern. For 14-count Aida, most stitchers work with two strands of floss for full cross stitches, providing good coverage without bulk. The pattern's symbol key (included in the PDF) maps each symbol to a specific floss color, likely referencing a major thread brand such as DMC or Anchor.
• Tapestry needle – A blunt-tipped tapestry needle, typically size 24 or 26, is recommended for 14-count Aida. The blunt tip slides through the fabric holes without splitting the weave, which is especially helpful for beginners.
• Embroidery hoop or frame – While not a material per se, keeping the Aida taut in a small embroidery hoop (a 6-inch or 8-inch hoop is suitable for this design size) ensures even tension and consistent stitch quality throughout the project.

Pattern Format and Designer

The pattern is sold as a downloadable PDF through