Variable Sunbird with Bright Yellow Breast
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Sunbirds are among Africa and Asia's most brilliant pollinators, earning the nickname 'African hummingbirds' for their hovering flight and needle-like bills. The Variable Sunbird, found across sub-Saharan Africa, is named for its regional color variations—males typically display iridescent blue, purple, or green plumage depending on location, though this particular rendering emphasizes the species' characteristic bright yellow or orange-yellow underparts. These tiny, high-energy birds dart rapidly between flowering plants, their metabolic rates so elevated they must feed nearly constantly. Their jewel-bright colors served as inspiration for centuries of African and European art, making them enduring symbols of natural elegance and botanical connection.
- Stitch count: 122 x 156
- 25 colors in the palette
- Downloaded 126 times
122 x 156 stitches 25 colors
Pattern description
This striking 122×122 stitch counted cross-stitch pattern captures a jewel-toned sunbird in dynamic profile, its iridescent black-and-gray plumage contrasted dramatically by a vivid yellow breast. The composition perches the bird on a pale branch against a softly blurred green foliage background, creating wonderful depth and focus. With 25 DMC thread colors, the design rewards intermediate stitchers who enjoy working with varied tones to build luminous feather detail and smooth shading. The warm color palette—yellow against cool grays and blacks—makes this pattern equally striking on classic ivory or cream Aida, and it works beautifully as a naturalistic framed piece or decorative accent for bird-loving enthusiasts and wildlife art collectors.
Material Type: Aida Generic White
Sewing Count: 14/inch or 55/100mm
Design Size: 122 x 156 stitches
Sewn Design Size: 8.7 x 11.1 inches or 221 x 283 mm
Suggested Material Size: 14.6 x 17 inches or 371 x 433 mm
Stitch Style: Cross-stitch Using 2 strands
