Free cactus cross stitch pattern

Create a plant that'll last forever with these prickly cactus cross stitch patterns - stitch these fab on-trend succulents and make into pin cushions, cards, gift tags and more!

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Published: February 14, 2022 at 10:00 am

Discover five cute and prickly cactus cross stitch patterns to stitch for free! You'll find four lovely cactus cross stitch patterns to download from the talented Cheryl Mckinnon, these are bright and vibrant and look lovely as pincushions (we'll show you how to do that below too!).

Next up you'll find a quirky cactus cross stitch designed by Susan Bates, this cute little guy works well as a present tag, a card or framed! Once you're finished give them away as gifts or keep them for yourself, we know one thing for sure any lucky recipient won't be feeling prickly after this!

Are you new to cross stitch? 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.

Mini cactus cross stitch cushions by Cheryl Mckinnon

From the desert to the desktop, these cacti have arrived just in time for your next project! We’ve turned them into colourful little cushions, ready for you to add your own prickles using pins and needles from your stitching stash! The zingy, green plants contrast brilliantly with brightly patterned pots and look great against white Aida. Work each design using whole stitches and backstitch, and complement the colours with pretty pom-pom edgings. They’ll make fab, quick gifts for stitching pals! These cute cactus cross stitch patterns were created by Cheryl Mckinnon, originally published in Cross Stitch Crazy issue 220.

Cactus cross stitch fact box:

  • Stitching Time - Approx 8 hours each
  • Type of Stitches - Cross stitch, backstitch
  • Ease of Stitching - Beginner

What you’ll need for the cactus cross stitch:

  • Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key
  • Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle
  • Fabric: Zweigart 14-count white Aida measuring 15x15cm (6x7¾in) for each design
  • Extras - Medium Pom-Pom Trim in Turquoise, Cerise, Orange and Yellow.
  • Backing fabric of your choice and wadding

Cactus cross stitch pattern

Click the link to download the free cactus cross stitch pattern. The download is an A4 PDF and an accompanying key.

How to make a cactus pin cushion

Step 1

Cut your aida to 12x10cm (4½x4in), keeping the stitching central, then draw an outline 1cm (½in) in from the edge to mark off the seam allowance. Back the reverse of your stitching with iron-on interfacing.

Step 2

Pin and tack your pom-pom trim to the right side of your stitching, on the outside of the seam allowance line, with pom-poms facing inwards.

Step 3

Cut a piece of backing fabric slightly larger than your stitching. Machine-stitch together with right sides facing along the marked line, leaving a 4cm (1½in) gap for turning.

Step 4

Turn through to the right side and stuff with wadding. Neatly slipstitch the gap closed to finish.


Cactus cross stitch pattern by Susan Bates

Capture the succulent trend in your cross stitch designs with this super-cute potted cactus pattern! Designed by Susan Bates, this pattern appeared in The World of Cross Stitching magazine and is perfect for your green-fingered friends! Stitch the pot in their favourite colour, then attach it to a gift bag, card or even get it framed for a gift they'll love.

Cactus cross stitch fact box:

  • Stitching Time - Approx 8 hours
  • Type of Stitches - Cross stitch, backstitch
  • Ease of Stitching - Beginner

What you'll need:

  • Stitch count: 35 high x 26 wide
  • Design area: 14 HPI (28-count evenweave) – 6.5x4.5cm (2.x1.in)
  • This design was stitched using DMC stranded cotton

Free cactus cross stitch pattern

If you enjoyed creating the cactus cross stitch design and have found yourself with the stitching bug then try these amazing beginner cross stitch patterns, you’ll find something to keep you busy. If you want some other fun makes, try these adorable cross stitch cards and top up your stash. Are you looking for gifts for someone special who loves stitching? Then check out these cute needle minders or these lovely modern cross stitch kits and the printed cross stitch kits which contain everything you need to complete your whole project, ideal for those new to the craft. If you want more inspiration for cross stitch ideas be sure to browse through our large collection of free cross stitch patterns, there is something for all ages and abilities.