Bring the calm and charm of the outdoors into your next project with this free cross stitch pattern featuring a beautifully detailed songbird resting on a leafy branch. Created for stitchers who appreciate the beauty of birds and enjoy a touch of realism in their work, this piece is both relaxing to create and striking to display. Ideal for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and seasoned crafters alike, it’s a delightful design that deserves a place in your collection.
A Closer Look at the Design: Songbird & Branch
This free counted cross stitch pattern highlights a charming bird perched gracefully on a horizontally stretching branch. The branch is rich in texture, shaded in earthy browns and tans, and accented with fresh green leaves.
The bird itself is where the magic happens—its plumage features soft chestnut browns, golden highlights, mossy greens, and misty grays. The subtle feather transitions, curved form, and expressive eye give the bird a lifelike presence, while still retaining a warm, artistic tone.
Design Highlights:
- Natural composition with realistic color shading
- Earth-toned palette: chestnuts, moss, golds, grays
- Painterly details: feathering, eye highlights, and bark texture
- Peaceful theme ideal for spring, wildlife decor, or personalized gifts
Whether framed or sewn into a cozy cushion, this pattern offers timeless charm and technical depth.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
This pattern offers a gentle challenge for those ready to refine their stitching skills. It uses varied stitch direction, subtle color blending, and light gradients—especially in the feathers and foliage.
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Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Stitches Used: Full cross stitches only
Estimated Time: 12–18 hours depending on experience
Suggested Supplies and Stitching Tools for Free Cross Stitch Pattern Songbird
Set yourself up for success with these trusted tools:
Recommended Materials and Tools
- Floss kit with 124 vibrant skeins 👉buy on Amazon
- Premium pure white cotton Fabric: 14-count Aida cloth in soft colors 👉buy on Amazon
- Set of tapestry needles made of stainless steel 👉buy on Amazon
Helpful Add-ons:
- Magnifying Glasses with Light for Cross stitching 👉buy on Amazon
- Adjustable 44cm beech wood embroidery stand with 360° rotation 👉buy on Amazon
- Set of 12 durable 3″ bamboo embroidery hoops 👉buy on Amazon
- Beaditive Precision Craft Scissors 👉buy on Amazon
- 360° rotating beech wood thread rack with 93 spindles and inner storage 👉buy on Amazon
- Set of 40 fine-tip fabric pens with vibrant, permanent, non-toxic ink 👉buy on Amazon
DMC Floss Color Table
| Symbol | DMC # | Color Name | Stitches |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 07 | Driftwood | 917 |
| 2 | 11 | Tender Green – Light | 305 |
| 3 | 16 | Chartreuse – Light | 272 |
| 4 | 300 | Mahogany – Very Dark | 727 |
| 5 | 318 | Steel Gray – Light | 487 |
| 6 | 367 | Pistachio Green – Dark | 109 |
| 7 | 407 | Desert Sand – Dark | 704 |
| 8 | 436 | Tan | 495 |
| 9 | 470 | Avocado Green – Light | 230 |
| 10 | 471 | Avocado Green – Very Light | 591 |
| 11 | 472 | Avocado Green – Ultra Light | 586 |
| 12 | 522 | Fern Green | 100 |
| 13 | 580 | Moss Green – Dark | 384 |
| 14 | 632 | Desert Sand – Ultra Very Dark | 567 |
| 15 | 648 | Beaver Gray – Light | 598 |
| 16 | 738 | Tan – Very Light | 684 |
| 17 | 739 | Tan – Ultra Very Light | 677 |
| 18 | 745 | Yellow – Light Pale | 317 |
| 19 | 746 | Off White | 468 |
| 20 | 839 | Beige Brown – Dark | 1152 |
| 21 | 928 | Gray Green – Very Light | 361 |
| 22 | 935 | Avocado Green – Dark | 47 |
| 23 | 936 | Avocado Green – Very Dark | 177 |
| 24 | 939 | Navy Blue – Very Dark | 8 |
| 25 | 945 | Tawny | 570 |
| 26 | 951 | Tawny – Light | 671 |
| 27 | 3021 | Brown Gray – Very Dark | 222 |
| 28 | 3362 | Pine Green – Dark | 307 |
| 29 | 3371 | Black Brown | 394 |
| 30 | 3772 | Desert Sand – Very Dark | 597 |
| 31 | 3781 | Mocha Brown – Dark | 354 |
| 32 | 3799 | Pewter Gray – Very Dark | 111 |
| 33 | 3813 | Blue Green – Light | 87 |
| 34 | 3819 | Moss Green – Light | 489 |
| 35 | 3820 | Straw – Dark | 100 |
| 36 | 3856 | Mahogany – Ultra Very Light | 225 |
| 37 | 3860 | Cocoa | 1164 |
| 38 | 3862 | Mocha Beige – Dark | 527 |
| 39 | B5200 | Snow White | 23219 |
Pattern Dimensions (for 14-Count Aida)
Design size: 200 x 200 stitches
Conversion:
- Width: 200 ÷ 14 = 14.29 inches (36.30 cm)
- Height: 200 ÷ 14 = 14.29 inches (36.30 cm)
Perfect for framing or display as a square centerpiece.
Ideas for Personalization & Display
Add your unique flair to this free cross stitch design:
- Frame in wood for a rustic, outdoorsy feel
- Use hand-dyed or vintage Aida for added depth
- Stitch initials or a quote beneath the branch
- Sew into a botanical journal cover or tote
- Match colors to your home décor with floss substitutions
Whether you’re using pre-packed cross stitch kits or customizing your own, this design adapts beautifully.
More Handy Tools for Your Stitching Setup
“Tools Stitchers Love to Use”
“These extra accessories make cross stitching even more enjoyable and efficient.”
“Also perfect gift ideas for crafters!”
- Portable Embroidery Organizer Bag 👉buy on Amazon
- LED Desk or Clip-On Light 👉buy on Amazon
- Silicone Finger Protectors (Thimbles) 👉buy on Amazon
- Water-Soluble Stabilizer Sheets 👉buy on Amazon
DOWNLOAD Free Cross Stitch Pattern Songbird HERE
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