Free Hand Embroidery Pattern --- Bird on a Tree Branch

Hi Friends,

Here is a new embroidery pattern. This little birdie pattern can be used especially for redwork. However, you can use it for other types of embroidery or fabric painting.

There’s something timeless about the image of a bird perched quietly on a branch. It evokes stillness, curiosity, and the gentle rhythm of nature. This embroidery pattern—featuring a single bird in profile, nestled among leafy twigs—is a celebration of that quiet beauty, rendered in thread and imagination.

Whether you're a seasoned stitcher or just beginning your embroidery journey, this pattern offers a canvas for creativity.

Techniques to Try

This pattern is perfect for experimenting with a mix of stitches:

• Backstitch or stem stitch for clean outlines
• Long and short stitch to add feather texture and shading
• Satin stitch for smooth leaf surfaces
• French knots for eyes or berry embellishments

You can also add dimension by layering threads or using a mix of matte and glossy floss.

Thread Color Suggestions

Bird

• Body and Wings:
• Slate Gray or Charcoal for a natural look
• Indigo or Deep Teal for a more stylized, elegant bird
• Beak:
• Golden Yellow or Burnt Orange for contrast
• Eye:

• Black with a tiny dot of White for a glint

Tree Branch and Leaves

• Branch:
• Chestnut Brown or Dark Walnut
• Leaves:

• Olive Green, Sage, or Emerald depending on the season you want to evoke
• For a whimsical twist: try Dusty Rose or Muted Lavender for the leaves

Background Accents (Optional)

• You could add a soft wash of Sky Blue or Pale Peach behind the bird to make it pop
• Or stitch a few blossoms in Soft Pink or Cream for a springtime vibe

A Moment of Stillness

In a world that moves fast, embroidery slows us down. As you stitch each feather and leaf, you’re not just creating art—you’re capturing a moment of quiet observation. A bird on a branch isn’t just a motif; it’s a reminder to pause, breathe, and notice the beauty perched right in front of us.

Personalizing Your Piece

One of the joys of embroidery is making a design your own. Consider:

• Adding blossoms or berries to the branch
• Incorporating a soft background wash with watercolor or fabric paint
• Framing it in a hoop with a rustic ribbon for display

This pattern also makes a lovely gift—especially for nature lovers, birdwatchers, or anyone who appreciates handmade charm.

Please let me know if you use this pattern in any of your projects. I will be happy to post the pictures of your project here on my blog. I have given my e-mail address in my profile. Have a nice day!

Happy stitching!

Flora