About This God With Us Pattern
This charted design creates a small nativity ornament sized 34w x 40h stitches. The pattern uses a compact palette of DMC floss and centers on a star-topped stable with two figures and a purple focal stitch. It is intended to be stitched on dark Aida and finished in a 3" wooden hoop wrapped with fabric strips for a polished holiday look.
The model was stitched 2 over 1 on 16 ct Black Aida by Zweigart for crisp coverage and contrast. A Swarovski AB crystal was glued to the center star for added sparkle and dimension.
Why You'll Love This God With Us Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it captures a classic nativity scene in a tiny, jewel-like format that is perfect for holiday gifting. I enjoy how the limited stitch count still conveys warmth and detail, especially when stitched on dark fabric. The finishing in a wrapped wooden hoop makes the piece feel like a boutique ornament with minimal framing work. I also love adding the Swarovski crystal for a little extra sparkle that catches the lights on a tree.
Switch Things Up
I love experimenting with different fabric counts to change the finished size—try 14 count for a chunkier look or 18 count for a finer, more delicate ornament.
I often swap the purple center (DMC 208) for a metallic or variegated thread to make the focal point shimmer differently.
For a softer holiday palette, choose pale blues and creams for the figures instead of the original greens and blues—this instantly changes the mood.
If you prefer a rustic finish, skip the crystal and wrap the hoop with twine or burlap strips rather than patterned fabric.
I sometimes add a tiny backstitch outline in a darker brown (DMC 433) to subtly increase contrast around the stable edges and make shapes read more clearly.
To make a set, stitch the chart multiple times in complementary colorways and finish each in different sized hoops for a layered tree display.
I also like to sew a felt backing with a small pocket to insert a stiff cardboard circle so the ornament keeps its shape when stored.
Try substituting a small button or bead for the Swarovski crystal if you want a handmade, vintage look instead of a sparkly accent.
If you want to gift this, personalize the back of the hoop with a stitched initial or date on a small fabric tag before sealing the back.
To create an heirloom version, use silk floss and a fine evenweave fabric, then finish the hoop with a satin ribbon for an elegant touch.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Miscounting the center when aligning the chart to the fabric can shift the entire design; mark and double-check the fabric center and align it with the chart crosshairs before stitching.
✗ Using too many strands on dark Aida can obscure the tiny details and make coverage uneven; use the recommended 2 over 1 (two strands over one fabric thread) for clarity and correct scale.
✗ Not testing colors on black fabric may lead to poor contrast and muddy details; stitch a small color test swatch to confirm how each DMC shade reads on your chosen Aida.
✗ Forgetting to secure thread ends neatly can cause loops or loose stitches later; weave in ends on the back as you go and secure with small knots or tidy backstitch weaving.
