Downloadable Cross Stitch Patterns

Downloadable cross stitch patterns are abundant on the Internet. Many of these patterns are free to download; while others cost a small fee. Some companies on the internet will allow you to design your own cross stitch pattern to your specifications using your own photo or picture.

History of Cross Stitch Patterns

Cross stitch is a popular textile craft using needle and embroidery floss or thread on cloth to make a picture or design. Cross stitchers use patterns as a guide so they know what color floss to use in each part of their design or picture. Historically women used cross stitch patterns to embellish their household items such as dishcloths, linens, and doilies. Often initials were incorporated into a design or pattern that was unique to their own household. Women also cross stitched patterns on children's dresses, wall hangings, and pillows. Today, cross stitching is still popular for embellishing clothing and household items.

Websites with Downloadable Cross Stitch Patterns

Following are some websites that have cross patterns to download. Downloading is a process where the pattern you choose is sent to your computer via the internet. You need to have a printer attached to your computer to print out the pattern. Many of these patterns are free to download; a few cost a couple of dollars.

DMC, the makers of one brand of embroidery floss, provide free downloadable cross stitch patterns. They are very easy to download and print out. The patterns are listed by skill level: easy, intermediate, or expert.
Free Patterns Online has cross stitch patterns for free to download. The designs are fairly simple and include holidays, religion, animals, the alphabet, and more.
Gran's Stitch Niche has free cross stitch patterns to download. Some of them are quite detailed. The patterns can be opened as a PDF file so you don't have to download the file to your hard drive. Just print out the pattern directly from the PDF when you click on the pattern you like.
All Crafts is a treasure trove of free patterns, links, and information on cross stitching.
Stitch Alley has free cross stitch patterns to download.
Free Cross Stitch is full of cute, free, downloadable cross stitch patterns.
Patterns Online has over 5000 downloadable cross stitch patterns to choose from. They update their collection frequently. The patterns are not free, but they are fairly inexpensive. For a little bit more money, you can have them ship you the pattern, all the colors of floss you will need, and the fabric canvas to complete each product.

Create Your Own Cross Stitch Patterns To Download

Converting your digital photos or pictures into a downloadable cross stitch pattern will make cross stitching even more fun. You start by uploading a favorite photo to the website. Uploading is the process in which you will send a digital photo or picture through the Internet by using your computer. You adjust the size of the photo on their website according to the size you want for your project. You also adjust the number of colors you want to use. Download and print out the pattern on your own computer and printer. This service is not free on most sites

Pattern Creator lets you upload a photo or any type of picture for a small fee. You get to adjust size and the number of colors you want to use. The maximum size photo they allow is two mega bytes.
Cross Stitch allows you to upload your photo or favorite picture and change it into a cross stitch pattern. Scan your image into your computer, upload to their site, and adjust the layout, size, and amount of colors you use. This site also allows you to draw your own cross stitch pattern and download it.

Conclusion

Downloadable cross stitch patterns available on the Internet have made cross stitching much easier. A word of caution though;before giving your credit card information to purchase a pattern, make sure the website is reputable.