Noel Quilt Blocks – Cross-Stitch Machine Embroidery Designs - 2 sizes

This set contains 9 square Norwegian Christmas quilt blocks—digital cross-stitch machine embroidery designs—each supplied in 2 original sizes. These are ready-to-load files for an embroidery machine, not hand cross-stitch charts. The motifs use programmed machine stitches that imitate a double cross; finished embroidery, fabric, thread and biscornu assembly materials are not included.

Sizes and stitch counts

Ornament 1
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 10509
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 10508

Ornament 2
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 9441
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 9440

Ornament 3
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 10705
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 10704

Ornament 4
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 10186
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 10186

Ornament 5
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 10491
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 10490

Ornament 6
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 11167
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 11166

Ornament 7
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 10882
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 10882

Ornament 8
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 11279
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 11278

Ornament 9
Size: 74.0x74.0 mm (2.91x2.91 "), Stitches: 7903
Size: 94.0x94.0 mm (3.70x3.70 "), Stitches: 7903

Formats: .dst, .jef, .pec, .vip, .hus, .pes, .exp, .sew, .dat, .vp3, xxx.

The nearly identical stitch counts for the two sizes are intentional. Each larger file retains the same number of cross elements while increasing the length of their diagonals. The ornament becomes larger, but its machine-stitch count stays the same or changes by only one stitch.

Set specifications

Original Madeira Classic 40 color

All nine RPE-1569 color charts specify one thread color and 0 color changes: Madeira Classic 40 No. 1146. Madeira maps this shade to Pantone 485 C, a clear saturated red. The screen swatch is approximate; use the spool number and a physical thread chart when an exact match matters.

The blue-and-white project shown in the gallery demonstrates a palette change; it does not mean that the files contain a second color. Because every ornament is monochrome, you can replace No. 1146 with white, navy, burgundy or pine green without rearranging the color sequence. A standard 75/11 embroidery needle is a practical starting point for 40-weight rayon or polyester thread. Test thicker 30-weight cotton first: its extra bulk is most noticeable where the double-cross diagonals overlap.

How to keep machine cross-stitch square

• Fabric: use stable medium-weight linen, cotton or a linen blend. Align the lengthwise and crosswise grain with the sides of the block; even slight rotation is visible in geometric embroidery.
• Stabilizer: begin with a good medium-weight tear-away on firm non-stretch linen or cotton. If the fabric is loose-woven, or the reverse will be enclosed inside a cushion, soft cut-away gives the square more permanent support.
• Hooping: hoop fabric and stabilizer together without stretching the fabric. Material tensioned like a drum contracts after release and can turn a square into a diamond.
• Speed: reduce machine speed if loops form on the diagonals or the upper thread begins to fuzz. Double cross-stitch changes direction more often than ordinary satin fill.
• Topping: it is unnecessary on smooth linen or cotton. Test a water-soluble film on textured or pile fabric, where separate crosses can sink between the fibers.

For backing selection, use the detailed guide to choosing stabilizers for machine embroidery. Hoop names are rounded labels, so compare the design with your machine's actual sewing field; the difference is explained in embroidery hoop sizes and stitching fields.

Biscornu and a 3x3 block composition

To make a biscornu, embroider two different ornaments in the same original size: 74.0x74.0 mm or 94.0x94.0 mm. The embroidery machine stitches the decorative squares, and the two pieces are joined by hand after embroidery; this set is not an in-the-hoop construction file.

For a 3x3 panel, keep equal spacing between the nine blocks and arrange 100% scale printouts before embroidering. Every ornament is supplied as a separate file, so you can stitch the blocks individually on separate fabric squares or combine them in embroidery software when the finished layout fits the actual field of a larger hoop.

Related cross-stitch designs

Norwegian Ornaments — 4 Sizes

Norwegian Snowflake — Free Design

Scandinavian Snowflakes — 3 Sizes

Baroque Square Ornament — 4 Sizes

Browse more cross-stitch quilt blocks and Christmas cross-stitch machine embroidery designs.

License: the digital files may not be copied, shared, published, exchanged or resold. The designs may be used for personal projects and for limited production of finished embroidered items for sale.

Frequently asked questions

Do all nine ornaments fit a 100x100 mm hoop (4х4)?

Yes. Both original sizes of every design—74.0x74.0 mm and 94.0x94.0 mm—fit a true 100x100 mm embroidery field. The 94 mm file leaves only 3 mm of clearance on each side when centered, so check the printed template and your machine's actual field before starting.

Why do the 74 and 94 mm sizes have almost the same stitch count?

The larger version retains the same number of cross elements but uses longer diagonals. The design dimensions increase while the stitch count stays the same or differs by one stitch.

Do I need to change thread during embroidery?

No. Every ornament is a one-color design with 0 color changes. The original chart specifies Madeira Classic 40 No. 1146; you can stitch the complete motif in another single color if preferred.

Can I make a biscornu from these designs?

Yes. Choose two ornaments in the same original size, stitch them on two squares of stable fabric and align each corner of one square with the midpoint of the other square's side. Assembly is completed by hand after embroidery and is not an in-the-hoop process.

Can I stitch all nine motifs as one 3x3 panel?

Yes, but the download contains separate files. Stitch the blocks individually or combine them in embroidery software with equal spacing, then verify the complete layout dimensions against the usable field of the selected hoop.