Chinese New Year 2026: In cross stitch
2026 is the zodiac Year of the Horse. The occasion is celebrated by billions of people around the world each year, and the celebrations are rich in culture and tradition that centres around the hope for good fortune and prosperity in the year ahead.
In the spirit of that celebration, Cheryl McKinnon (Tiny Modernist) has designed a beautiful mixture of motifs to welcome the Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year). In the free download, you'll find the likes of lanterns, good luck charms, a dragon and much more to start stitching! We hope these will bring good fortune to all those who stitch them.
When is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year starts on Tuesday 17th February 2026.
If you want to read and learn more about the Lunar New Year, there are plenty of resources available online. We like this one from China Highlights. This article contains 21 things you didn't know about Chinese New Year.
What is the year of?
It is the year of the Horse, specifically the Fire Horse. Is your Chinese zodiac sign a Horse? Find out here.
Chinese New Year 2026 cross stitch patterns
You'll find 14 lovely motifs to symbolise the Chinese or Lunar New Year, including an alphabet to add some personalisation to your stitch creations.
These motifs were designed by Cheryl McKinnon and were originally published in Cross Stitch Crazy issue 224, January 2017, in which you'll find an additional 36 motifs to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
If you’re new to cross stitch or need an extra helping hand getting started, we have plenty of useful resources available. Find out how to cross stitch or learn more about cross stitch needle sizes. These two guides contain all you need to know about cross stitch, and you'll be able to start stitching today!
Chinese New Year cross stitch fact box:
- Stitching Time - Approx 2-5 hours each
- Type of Stitches - Cross stitch, backstitch
- Ease of Stitching - Beginner
What you’ll need:
- Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key
- Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle
- Fabric - White Aida measuring a maximum of 15x15cm (6x6in) for most designs
Chinese New Year pattern download PDF
The download contains x2 A4 PDF containing 12 motifs plus an alphabet and an accompanying key.
Celebrate with Chinese New Year cross stitch
Choose from a selection of lovely cross stitch designs to celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year!
Top up your stash with cross stitch cards
We hope you loved the Chinese New Year cross stitch. If you want some other fun makes, try these adorable cross stitch cards and top up your stash.
