.badge-top-right{ position:absolute; top:.5rem; right:.5rem; z-index:1; }

Beginner Blackwork Patterns

Pick Your First Pattern

If you’re curious about blackwork embroidery but not quite sure where to start, you’re in the right place.

These three beginner-friendly designs are more than just patterns—they’re gentle invitations. Each one teaches you something useful, offers a little moment of calm, and gives you a finish you’ll be proud to share.

Pick the one that speaks to you—or collect them all as a way to ease into blackwork with confidence and joy.

These are digital PDF patterns only. No physical materials will be shipped.

Little Owl in BlackworkBeginner

£2.25 Instant PDF download
little owl cover 250

Skill Level: Absolute Beginner

Fabric: 14-count Aida (or your fabric of choice)

Stitch count: 48w x 46h stitches

Finished Size: Approx. 3.4" x 3.3" (8.6 x 8.4cm) on 14-count Aida

Stitches Used: Backstitch (for blackwork outlines and fills)

Colour Palettes: Monochromatic - use your favourite single colour of floss!

This sweet little owl is brought to life with bold, easy-to-see outlines and three simple yet elegant fill patterns. The design is a wonderful way to learn the essential skills of blackwork embroidery, from creating crisp lines to filling spaces with beautiful geometric texture. Each section is clearly explained, allowing you to build your confidence one stitch at a time.

Once finished, you'll have more than just a practice piece; you'll have a cheerful work of art. This little owl makes a wonderful ornament, a lovely patch for a project bag, or a sweet piece of decor for your craft space. It's a timeless reminder of the moment you mastered a new skill and created something beautiful with your own hands.

Highlighted Feature: Our unique instructions include stitch order tips specifically designed to help the back of your work look as tidy as the front—solving the #1 worry for beginner stitchers!

“I was so nervous to try blackwork, but this pattern was incredibly easy to follow. I’m so proud of my finished owl and can't wait to start another!”

- Sarah K., Beginner Stitcher

Rocking HorseBeginner

£2.25 Instant PDF download

Skill level: Beginner

Fabric: 14-count Aida or 28-count evenweave

Stitch Count: 54 x 53 stitches

Finished Size: 4 x 4 inches (10.2 x 10.2cm) on 14 ct

Stitches Used: Double running stitch or backstitch, cross stitch

Has the wonderful news of a new arrival got you searching for the perfect, unique pattern to stitch? This charming Blackwork Rocking Horse is a delightful alternative to traditional designs and creates a beautiful, timeless gift for a new baby.

The pattern is clear and easy to follow, making it a quick and rewarding project, even for a blackwork beginner. Once finished, it makes a lovely addition to any nursery wall or can be used to create a very special handmade card.

You don't even need to wait for the birth to get started! With customisable colours and space to add your own details, you can have the perfect gift ready for when mother and baby come home from the hospital.

Make It Your Own

Colours: Stitch in classic blue or pink, or choose a neutral shade like grey or mint green. Add a touch of sparkle with gold or silver metallic accents!

Personalise: The design leaves ample space for you to add the baby's name, date of birth, and weight.

Get Creative: Don't just stop at a picture! Using waste canvas, you can stitch this sweet motif directly onto a babygrow, blanket, or cushion for a truly unique keepsake.

“I needed a last-minute baby shower gift and this was perfect. I downloaded it and had it stitched over the weekend. The new mom absolutely loved it!”

- Jessica P.

Run Rabbit RunBeginner

£2.25 Instant PDF download

Skill Level: Beginner

Fabric: 14-count Aida fabric recommended

Stitch Count: 70 x 39 stitches

Finished Size: 5" x 2.75" (12.7 x 7cm)

Stitches Used: Double running stitch or backstitch

Supplies Needed: Tapestry needle, thread colours of your choice

This charming bunny hops across a soft floral border in this delightful folk-inspired blackwork design. "Run Rabbit Run" captures the whimsical spirit of countryside tales with its flowing rhythm and gentle movement. Perfect for those quiet stitching moments when you want to lose yourself in the meditative beauty of needlework, this design offers both simplicity and sophistication.

The folk-inspired aesthetic brings timeless appeal that will look beautiful in any home setting.

Whether you're looking for your next gentle challenge or creating something special for spring decor, this blackwork design will become a treasured addition to your stitching collection. The finished piece makes a wonderful gift or a delightful accent for your own mindful living space.

Perfect Next Step: Ideal for beginners ready to explore more detailed techniques with confidence-building guidance.

“After finishing my first project, I wanted to try something with more detail. This was the perfect next step! The different textures were fun to learn and the guide made it so easy.”

- Maria G.


Stay connected between projects

If you’d like occasional updates from my embroidery room, including new patterns, gentle tips, and little things I think you might enjoy, you’re warmly invited to join the Stitchin’ Times newsletter.

No pressure. Just a friendly note now and then to keep you inspired.