Toucan in DMC - PAT0774 - Downloadable PDF

DMC Toucan Cross Stitch Pattern (PAT0774) – Free Downloadable PDF

This free downloadable cross stitch pattern from the DMC Library features a vibrant, colourful toucan design, perfect for stitchers who want to bring a bold and exotic bird to life on fabric. Rated as a beginner-friendly project, this pattern is an excellent introduction to counted cross stitch, offering a satisfying and eye-catching result without requiring advanced embroidery skills.

About the Design

The finished toucan motif measures approximately 9.5 × 11.4 cm (3.07 × 4.48 inches) when stitched on the recommended fabric. The design is presented as a coloured cross stitch chart, making it easy for beginners to follow along and identify thread colours at a glance. The striking tropical bird is rendered in a rich palette that captures the toucan's famously dramatic colouring, from deep blacks and navies to vivid oranges, yellows, and fresh greens.

Techniques Used

• Counted cross stitch – the primary technique, where X-shaped stitches are placed on an evenweave or Aida fabric by counting threads to position each stitch precisely according to the chart
• Quarter stitches (¼ cross stitch) – indicated on the chart to add detail and smoother curves to the design, particularly useful for capturing the rounded contours of the toucan's beak and body

Cross stitch is one of the most accessible forms of embroidery, making this pattern an ideal starting point for newcomers. The technique involves working stitches in two diagonal passes to form a neat X on the fabric surface, following a numbered or coloured grid chart square by square.

Stitches Used

• Full cross stitch – the foundation stitch used throughout the design
• Quarter cross stitch (¼ stitch) – used for refined detail and smoother outlines within the design

Thread Colours

The pattern uses DMC Mouliné Spécial Embroidery Thread (117MC) in the following colour codes:

• 310 – Black
• 939 – Very Dark Navy Blue
• 823 – Dark Navy Blue
• 336 – Navy Blue
• 3850 – Bright Green
• 989 – Forest Green
• 725 – Topaz
• 301 – Medium Mahogany
• 740 – Tangerine
• 967 – Very Light Apricot
• 3865 – Winter White

DMC Mouliné Spécial is a six-strand divisible cotton embroidery floss, widely regarded as the industry standard for cross stitch and embroidery. Stitchers can adjust the number of strands used depending on their fabric count and desired coverage.

Materials Required

• DMC Mouliné Spécial embroidery thread in the 11 listed colour codes
• Cross stitch Aida fabric – 14-count Aida is recommended, particularly for beginners, as it is the most widely available and easiest to work with; the design size given is based on 14-count
• Cross stitch needle – a blunt-tipped tapestry needle appropriate for the fabric count chosen
• Embroidery hoop – optional but recommended to keep fabric taut and stitches even
• Scissors

Fabric Count and Sizing Notes

The finished size of this toucan design will vary depending on the count of the Aida or evenweave fabric selected. A higher fabric count (more stitches per inch) produces smaller, finer stitches and a more compact finished design, while a lower count results in larger stitches and a bigger piece. The 9.5 × 11.4 cm dimensions stated are based on 14-