The short version: DMC, LoveCrafts, Fat Quarter Shop and independent designers' freebies are where to get free cross stitch patterns in 2026. DMC is the best first stop, because a chart from the thread maker matches the skeins on the shelf.
Cross stitch is one of the friendliest crafts to start for free. A chart, a needle, a piece of Aida and a few skeins of thread are all you need, and plenty of designers give charts away. The thing that trips most beginners up isn't the stitching. It's working out how big the finished piece will be and which fabric to stitch it on.
Four places to find cross stitch patterns
In no particular order:
- DMC: best for free charts from the embroidery thread maker itself.
- LoveCrafts: best for browsing instant PDF cross stitch patterns, with a free section.
- Fat Quarter Shop: best for free cross stitch patterns alongside its quilting library.
- Independent designers: best for modern and funny designs you won't see anywhere else.
Cross stitch pattern sources side by side
| Source | Best for | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| DMC | Thread-matched charts | Free patterns sit beside kits and thread |
| LoveCrafts | Instant PDFs | Filter to the free cross stitch section |
| Fat Quarter Shop | Seasonal designs | Free charts listed with its quilting content |
| Independent designers | Modern designs | Check each designer's terms for sharing |
Free sections change through the year, so save the PDF when you find one.
DMC, LoveCrafts and Fat Quarter Shop
DMC is the thread most charts are written for, and its site has a Free Patterns section in its main menu, next to kits, thread and its knitting and crochet patterns. The advantage of starting there is simple: a chart from the thread maker is written for its own threads, so the colours in the key match the skeins on the shelf without converting from another brand.
LoveCrafts groups cross stitch with embroidery and offers thousands of instant PDF patterns, with a dedicated free cross stitch section. It's the easiest place to browse a lot of styles quickly, from traditional samplers to modern text pieces. Fat Quarter Shop, better known for quilting, also keeps a Free Cross Stitch Patterns section, which is handy for seasonal designs.
Independent designers are where the most original charts live, and some share a free chart on their own sites. Their terms vary, so check them before you pass a PDF on, and share the link rather than the file when you're unsure.
Fabric count decides how big it'll be
This is the detail that surprises beginners. DMC explains that the count of a fabric refers to the number of stitches you can make in an inch, and that the metric equivalent is stitches per centimetre. Its own Christmas Aida is a 14-count fabric. DMC adds that the higher the count, the smaller the stitches, which gives a finer finish.
So the same chart stitched on a higher count fabric comes out smaller, and on a lower count it comes out bigger. A chart tells you its size in stitches, not inches. Before you cut fabric, divide the stitch count of the design by your fabric count to get the size in inches, then add a generous margin all round for framing. If you want a bigger piece with bolder stitches, choose a lower count; for a delicate finish, go higher.
One more thing DMC flags on its fabric pages: take into account the care instructions for all the threads and fabrics in your project. That matters if you're stitching something that'll be washed, like a tea towel or a baby bib, rather than framed. Check the thread and fabric labels before you start, and you won't get a nasty surprise the first time it goes in the machine.
If you're brand new, pick a small free chart with only a handful of colours for your first piece. You'll learn how to read the key, start and finish threads neatly and keep your tension even, without spending weeks on one design. A bookmark or a small motif for a card is perfect. Once that's done, you'll know whether you prefer bold, simple designs or detailed pieces that take a whole season, and you can choose your next free chart with far more confidence.
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Starting a free chart
- Download the PDF and find the design size in stitches.
- Choose your fabric count and work out the finished size.
- Add a margin on every side for framing or finishing.
- Gather the thread colours listed in the key.
- Start from the centre of the fabric and the centre of the chart.
- Mark off finished areas on a printed copy so you don't lose your place.
Gifts, samplers and slow evenings
Free charts are perfect for gifts, cards, bookmarks and a calming evening hobby. Many stitchers keep a board of designs to try, and my guide on creating a pin on Pinterest shows how to save your own. If stitching is how you unwind, these mindfulness journal prompts make a nice pairing, and these art prompts might spark your first design of your own.
My advice: start with a DMC freebie on 14-count Aida, do the size sum before you cut, and respect each designer's terms. It's how the free charts keep coming.
Run a free cross stitch pattern site that belongs on this list? See how to get it featured.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get free cross stitch patterns?
DMC has a Free Patterns section, LoveCrafts has a free cross stitch section, and Fat Quarter Shop keeps free cross stitch patterns too. Many independent designers also share free charts.
What does 14-count Aida mean?
DMC explains that count is the number of stitches you can make in an inch. Its Christmas Aida is 14-count, and a higher count gives smaller stitches and a finer finish.
How do I work out the finished size of a cross stitch?
Divide the design's width and height in stitches by your fabric count to get the size in inches, then add a margin for framing.
Do free cross stitch patterns tell you the thread colours?
Most charts include a key. A chart from DMC is written for DMC threads, so the colours in the key match its skeins.
Can I share a free cross stitch pattern PDF?
Check the designer's terms first. When you're unsure, share the link to the pattern rather than the file itself.
