Soft Pastel Santa with Rosy Cheeks and Red Hat
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About this pattern
Each PDF includes stitch counts and a full color key so you can kit it quickly. Check the stitch size against your fabric count to estimate finished dimensions, and keep a few extra skeins on hand if you plan to backstitch or outline.
Quick finishing tips
- Use shorter floss lengths to avoid tangles and keep coverage even.
- Secure thread ends under nearby stitches instead of bulky knots.
- Gently wash and press face-down on a towel before framing.
- Stitch count: 83 x 83
- 20 colors in the palette
- Downloaded 205 times
83 x 99 stitches 20 colors
Pattern description
This charming Santa captures the gentler side of holiday tradition with his pale blue-grey complexion and warmly blushed cheeks. The composition centers on his gentle, serene expression—peaceful blue eyes and a subtle red smile—framed by his iconic red stocking cap trimmed in white fluffy fur. The soft, muted palette creates an unexpectedly calming take on Christmas iconography.
At 83 x 83 stitches, this intermediate-level counted cross stitch project uses 20 DMC thread colors to render subtle shading and dimension across Santa's face and distinctive features. The careful color gradations—particularly in the pale tones of his beard and the rosy undertones of his cheeks—make this an engaging challenge for stitchers comfortable with color blending and pixel-level precision.
Perfect for framing as a standalone Christmas decoration or incorporating into holiday decor, this pattern works beautifully on 14-count Aida fabric. Stitchers will appreciate the square format and manageable stitch count, making it an ideal project to complete within a season while still offering meaningful complexity. The soft aesthetic makes this Santa equally suited for modern minimalist spaces or traditional holiday displays.
Stitch planning checklist
- Measure your fabric against the stitch count to confirm finished size.
- Sort floss by symbol before you start; pre-thread a few needles for speed.
- Work in small blocks to keep counting accurate and spot mistakes early.
- Backstitch at the end of each session so outlines stay crisp.
Material Type: Aida Generic White
Sewing Count: 14/inch or 55/100mm
Design Size: 83 x 99 stitches
Sewn Design Size: 5.9 x 7.1 inches or 151 x 180 mm
Suggested Material Size: 11.8 x 13 inches or 301 x 330 mm
Stitch Style: Cross-stitch Using 2 strands
