DMC Swallow - PAT1162 - Downloadable PDF

DMC Swallow Cross Stitch Pattern (PAT1162) – Free Downloadable PDF

The DMC Swallow (also known as Hirondelle in French) is a free downloadable cross stitch pattern from the DMC Library – Bibliothèque DMC, published in 2019. This intermediate-level embroidery design depicts a swallow rendered in full colour, making it a charming and classic subject for needlework enthusiasts looking to develop their counted cross stitch skills.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a square embroidered design measuring 21.8 x 21.8 cm (approximately 8.58 x 8.58 inches) at a standard fabric count. The finished piece features a detailed, coloured representation of a swallow, suitable for framing, displaying in an embroidery hoop, or incorporating into a larger textile project. The design size will vary depending on the count of the Aida fabric selected — a higher count produces smaller, finer stitches and a more compact finished design, while a lower count results in larger stitches and a bigger overall image.

Techniques Used

• Coloured Cross Stitch: The primary technique used throughout this pattern. Cross stitch involves forming small X-shaped stitches over the intersections of an even-weave or Aida fabric, following a colour-coded chart square by square. It is one of the most widely practised forms of counted embroidery and is well suited to creating detailed pictorial designs.
• Backstitch: Used as a finishing and outlining technique, backstitch creates clean, continuous lines that define the edges and fine details of the swallow motif. It is worked by bringing the needle back to the end of the previous stitch, creating a solid, unbroken line. The pattern is described as a coloured cross stitch chart with backstitch, indicating that backstitch plays a meaningful role in adding definition and depth to the finished design.

Stitches Used

• Cross Stitch – the foundational stitch forming the body of the design
• Backstitch – used for outlines and fine linear detail

Materials Required

• DMC Diamant Embroidery Thread (Art. 380): The pattern specifically calls for DMC Diamant thread, a metallic embroidery thread produced by DMC. Diamant thread adds a subtle shimmer and lustre to the finished design, elevating the visual impact of the swallow motif beyond what standard cotton floss alone would achieve.
• Cross Stitch Fabric / Aida (Toile Aida): The pattern is designed for use with Aida fabric, an even-weave fabric with a regular grid of holes that guides stitch placement. The count of the Aida chosen will directly affect the finished dimensions of the design.
• Cross Stitch Needle (Aiguille): A blunt-tipped tapestry or cross stitch needle is required to pass through the holes of the Aida fabric without splitting the weave.
• Embroidery Hoop (Optional / Tambour Optionnel): An embroidery hoop is recommended to keep the fabric taut and even during stitching, though it is listed as optional in the pattern materials.
• Scissors (Ciseaux): Required for cutting and managing thread lengths.

Skill Level and Format

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it ideal for stitchers who are comfortable with basic cross stitch and ready to work with a multi-colour chart and backstitch detailing. The pattern is presented as a downloadable PDF and is available free of charge from the DMC Library. The chart is presented in full colour with a clear backstitch diagram, providing all the visual guidance needed to complete the design accurately.