How to make a cross stitch elf tree decoration
Join the festive frolics with our cheeky elf tree decoration designed by Heather Nugent. We show you how to make the 3D bauble using the exclusive kit with your issue of The World of Cross Stitching.
Published:
Your exclusive cross stitch gift with issue 314 (Special 2021) of The World of Cross Stitching is a jolly elf bauble kit. This project is perfect for beginners and you’ll have it stitched and ready for your Christmas tree in no time!
Here, we show you how to stitch and make the tree hanging. You’ll need all elements from your kit listed below plus a size 24 tapestry needle.
If you haven’t yet created your cross stitch and want some advice or guidance on the best techniques and top tips for getting started be sure to head over to our guide on how to cross stitch.
You will need:
- 14-count plastic Aida
- 36 lengths stranded cotton
- Size 24 tapestry needle
- Red baker’s twine
- Clear colour chart and key
Elf cross stitch video tutorial:
You Will Need
- 14-count plastic aida
- Stranded cotton
- Baker's twine
- Tapestry needle
Total time:
15 hours including cross stitch
Step 1
Use a ruler to find the centre of the plastic aida and start stitching the centre of the design from there.
Step 2
Once you’ve finished stitching, cut a border of one square around the edge of the stitched design, following the cutting line on the chart as a guide. Round off the bottom in a continuous cut for a nice smooth edge.
Step 3
Create a loop with your baker’s twine and tie the ends together in a double knot.
Step 4
Bend the plastic aida to line up the straight edges. Starting at the bottom of the presents, use whipstitch to stitch the edges together, working towards the top of the elf’s hat. (You may wish to change the colour of the thread as you go to match the design.) As you get close to the top, insert the baker’s twine with the knot inside the cone, then continue whipstitching to the top and secure the thread ends.
Step 5
Now hang on your Christmas tree!
If you loved the elf cross stitch decoration and want to get stuck into more festive cross stitch, there’s plenty of free projects available right here on Gathered. Try these amazing 150 cross stitch patterns, you’ll find something to suit all abilities. Want some other Christmas makes, try these adorable gnome cross stitch bookmarks or personalise your Christmas cards with the cross stitch alphabet.
If you are thinking of getting your stitch-mad friends a gift this Christmas, get them one of these beautiful modern cross stitch kits, or these amazing Christmas cross stitch kits, which make excellent stocking stuffers! If you are new to cross stitch and Gathered, we have plenty of free cross stitch patterns to get you started.
Authors
Hannah has been the Editor of The World of Cross Stitching magazine for 4 years and is responsible for bringing a wide range of cross stitch patterns from the best international designers to the readers around the world. She loves to stitch modern baby samplers for new arrivals amongst her friends and family, but as an all-round crafter, Hannah is just as likely to have a crochet hook in hand as a needle and thread. When she’s not busy crafting, Hannah can be found Irish dancing or running to keep fit.
