Pocahontas - PDF Cross Stitch Pattern

Pocahontas PDF Cross Stitch Pattern by HugSandwich

This downloadable PDF cross stitch pattern by independent designer HugSandwich features a charming Pocahontas-inspired design, crafted to bring a beloved character to life on fabric through counted cross stitch embroidery. The pattern is well-suited to beginner and intermediate stitchers alike, offering a manageable design size with a clear, symbol-based chart that guides every stitch placement.

Design Specifications

• Design dimensions: 7.79 inches x 3.79 inches (109 x 53 stitches)
• Recommended fabric: 14 Count Aida cloth
• Format: Downloadable PDF, available instantly after purchase
• Designer: HugSandwich (www.hugsandwich.shop)
• Intended use: Personal use only — redistribution or resale of the pattern or finished items made from it is not permitted

What Is Being Made

The finished piece is a counted cross stitch embroidery depicting the Pocahontas character design as interpreted by HugSandwich. The horizontal, wide-format composition — at 109 stitches across and 53 stitches tall — makes it ideal for framing, hoop display, or incorporation into handmade gifts and keepsakes. The relatively compact stitch count keeps the project approachable for those newer to embroidery while still delivering a detailed and expressive result.

Techniques Used

• Counted cross stitch: The primary technique, in which X-shaped stitches are placed over the intersections of an evenweave fabric following a symbol chart. Each symbol on the grid corresponds to a specific thread color, allowing the stitcher to build up the image row by row.
• Symbol-based charting: The PDF chart uses a variety of distinct symbols (such as !, 7, h, G, 8, 9, <, (, and others) to represent individual floss colors, enabling accurate color placement across the full 109 x 53 stitch grid.
• Back stitch or outlining may be used for fine detail work, as is common in character-based cross stitch designs of this style, though stitchers should refer to the full PDF for any specific outlining instructions included by the designer.

Stitches Used

• Cross stitch (full cross): The foundational stitch of the pattern, formed by two diagonal stitches crossing at the center of each fabric square to create the classic X shape that builds color and form across the design.
• Partial or fractional stitches may appear in areas requiring finer detail or curved edges, which is typical in character portrait designs at this scale.

Materials Required

• Fabric: 14 Count Aida — the standard recommendation from the pattern. Aida cloth is a popular, beginner-friendly evenweave fabric with clearly visible holes that make stitch placement straightforward and consistent.
• Embroidery floss: Multiple colors of stranded cotton embroidery thread are required, corresponding to the range of symbols shown across the chart. The color key included in the PDF will specify the exact thread shades needed.
• Needle: A blunt-tipped tapestry needle sized appropriately for 14 Count Aida — typically a size 24 or 26 tapestry needle — is recommended for counted cross stitch on this fabric count.
• Embroidery hoop or frame: Optional but strongly recommended to keep the Aida fabric taut and even throughout stitching, helping to maintain consistent stitch tension across the full design.
• Scissors: Small, sharp embroidery scissors for trimming thread ends cleanly.

Who This Pattern Is For

This pattern from HugSandwich is listed as a beginner-level project, making it a wonderful choice for those just starting their cross stitch journey as well as experienced stitchers looking for a