Pattern Collection

3 Beginner Blackwork Patterns: Follow the Coloured Path

I used to open a blackwork pattern, take a few stitches, and then immediately lose my place. What made blackwork finally click for me was realising there's a simple stitch path you can follow. You work forward along the line, then come back and fill the gaps. So you always know where you are, and the pattern builds in a calm, logical way.

These three beginner designs are built around that approach. You'll learn a practical skill, get a quiet moment of focus, and finish with something you'll actually want to show off. £2.25 each as instant PDF downloads. Pick the one that speaks to you, or collect all three to ease in with confidence.

Little Owl Rocking Horse Run Rabbit Run

Little Owl in Blackwork Absolute Beginner

£2.25 Instant PDF download

This sweet owl starts with bold, easy-to-follow outlines and uses three simple fill patterns to introduce classic blackwork texture. You'll practise crisp lines, neat corners, and filling small sections without losing your place.

Finish it as an ornament, a patch for a project bag, or a cheerful piece of decor for your stitching space.

Stitch count: 48w x 46h

Finished size: ~3.4 x 3.3 in (8.6 x 8.4 cm) on 14 count

Fabric: 14-count Aida (or your choice)

Stitches: Backstitch and double running stitch

Floss: Monochrome (choose one colour)

Little Owl blackwork pattern with bold outlines and three beginner-friendly fill patterns Add to Cart Price excludes UK/EU VAT (added at checkout)
Why this design works: Stitch-order tips that help the back look almost as tidy as the front. The most common "messy back" worry, sorted from the start.

Rocking Horse Beginner

£2.25 Instant PDF download

Got a new arrival on the way (or just announced)? This charming rocking horse is a fresh alternative to the usual baby motifs, and it's designed to be simple to follow even if you've never stitched blackwork before. You'll practise clean outlines, small repeating fills, and tidy starts and stops, while finishing a piece that looks crisp and gift-worthy.

Make it your own:

  • Colours: classic blue or pink, a neutral grey or mint, or metallic accents for sparkle
  • Personalise: add the baby's name, date of birth, and weight in the open space provided
  • Get creative: use waste canvas to stitch the motif onto a babygrow, blanket, or cushion for a keepsake

Stitch count: 54 x 53

Finished size: 4 x 4 in (10.2 x 10.2 cm) on 14 count

Fabric: 14-count Aida

Stitches: Double running stitch or backstitch, plus cross stitch

Rocking Horse blackwork pattern with space to personalise for a new baby Add to Cart Price excludes UK/EU VAT (added at checkout)
Why this design works: Built-in space for personal details + easy colour customisation. Stitch the design today and add the baby's name later once the announcement is made.

Run Rabbit Run Beginner

£2.25 Instant PDF download

A sweet bunny hops along a soft floral border in this folk-inspired design. Calm to stitch, but visually rich when it's finished.

It's the perfect next step after your first blackwork project, helping you practise longer continuous lines, steady rhythm in repeats, and keeping a border tidy and even.

Stitch it as a spring accent, frame it for a cosy corner, or gift it to someone who loves countryside charm.

Stitch count: 70 x 39

Finished size: 5 x 2.75 in (12.7 x 7 cm) on 14 count

Fabric: 14-count Aida

Stitches: Double running stitch or backstitch

Other supplies: Tapestry needle, thread colours of your choice

Run Rabbit Run blackwork pattern with a bunny hopping along a folk-style floral border Add to Cart Price excludes UK/EU VAT (added at checkout)
Why this design works: A gentle step up from the Owl. Same beginner-friendly stitches, but longer continuous lines and a repeating border to settle into.
Keep Going

Build Your Blackwork Confidence

Blackwork Tutorial

How blackwork works, how the fills build up, and the two stitches you need. Read this first if you're brand new.

Blackwork for Beginners Ebook

The full beginner walkthrough in one downloadable book. Eight guided projects, neat reversible backs taught from scratch. £9.95.

Blackwork Patterns Shop

When you're ready for the next step: animals, flowers, figures, samplers, and more. The full catalogue.