Cross Stitch Christmas Ornaments: What to Use and How to Finish Them

ByElla Schmidt

Cross stitch Christmas ornaments are small designs that you stitch and then back, frame, or stuff so they can hang on the tree. They are quick to make, they use leftover thread, and they make good gifts. This guide covers what to stitch on, how to size a design, and four easy ways to finish an ornament.

Four cross stitch Christmas ornaments finished four ways: a heart in a mini hoop, a tree on a felt back, a stuffed candy cane pillow and a snowflake cut from perforated paper
Four ways to finish a cross stitch ornament, from left: mini hoop, flat with a felt back, stuffed, and perforated paper cutout. Illustration.

What to stitch on

Aida fabric

14-count Aida is the easiest choice. It has 14 squares per inch and clear holes. Use 2 strands of floss.

Perforated paper

Perforated paper is stiff paper with a grid of holes. It most often comes in 14 count. It holds its shape, so you can cut around your stitching and hang the piece without a frame. Handle it with care:

  • Do not bend or roll it. Creases stay.
  • Pull the thread gently so the paper does not tear.
  • Keep your hands clean. You cannot wash paper.
  • Stitch it in your hand. A hoop can bend it.

Plastic canvas

Plastic canvas is a stiff plastic grid. It works well for sturdy ornaments and for stitching with kids.

How big will the ornament be?

Divide the number of stitches by the fabric count. A design that is 40 stitches wide on 14-count fabric measures about 2.9 inches wide, because 40 divided by 14 is 2.86. The same design on 18-count fabric measures about 2.2 inches.

What you need

  • Fabric, perforated paper, or plastic canvas
  • A size 24 tapestry needle for 14 count (see cross stitch needle sizes)
  • Embroidery floss in your colors
  • Scissors
  • Felt for the back
  • Ribbon or cord for the hanger

Four ways to finish a cross stitch ornament

1. Mini hoop

Center the stitching in a small hoop and tighten it. Trim the extra fabric, gather it at the back, and cover the back with a circle of felt. Tie a ribbon to the top.

2. Flat ornament with a felt back

Trim the fabric and leave a margin around the stitching. Fold the margin over a piece of stiff card cut to shape. Add a ribbon loop at the top, then cover the back with felt.

3. Stuffed ornament

Place the stitching and a piece of backing fabric right sides together. Sew around the edge and leave a gap. Turn it right side out, add a little stuffing, tuck in a ribbon loop, and sew the gap closed.

4. Perforated paper cutout

Cut around the design one hole outside the stitching. Use paper scissors, not your fabric scissors. Glue felt to the back and add a hanger.

Ornament ideas

  • A snowflake in white on red or blue fabric
  • A tree, a star, or a candy cane
  • A name or initials with the year
  • A set of four small designs in the same colors
  • A tiny wreath with a bow

Tips

  • Start in the center of the fabric so the design sits in the middle.
  • Use short lengths of metallic thread. It frays and tangles more than cotton floss.
  • Stitch the date. A year on the back or in a corner turns an ornament into a keepsake.
  • Make extras. Small ornaments fit in a card or on top of a gift.

Common questions

What count fabric is best for ornaments?

14 count is the easiest to see. 18 count makes the same design smaller, which helps when you want a small ornament.

Can beginners make cross stitch ornaments?

Yes. A small ornament with a few colors is one of the best first projects. If you have never stitched, read cross stitch for beginners first.

How many strands of floss should I use?

Use 2 strands on 14-count Aida.

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