Cross stitch protection charm

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Note: This article was originally published by @gritchenwitch on Instagram. To learn about me and my practice, including more info on folk witchcraft, mountain magic, knot work, and hearthcraft, please visit gritchenwitch.com or join my Patreon at patreon.com/gritchenwitch.

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This pattern, including all customizations, can be downloaded for free here.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for combining cross stitch and knot magic to create a protection charm.

Click here to see all six animal versions of the pattern.

The stitch count is 29 x 26.

1. Choose and stitch your core animal

Choose your favorite animal to represent yourself or your subject. I've shared six options:

Stag - grace, maturity, enlightenment
Lion - majesty, strength, courage
Wolf - loyalty, family, intelligence
Sparrow - love, joy, integrity
Cat - elegance, independence, magic
Rabbit - gentleness, luck, sensitivity

I've used brown thread for stability but you can always substitute another color based on your intention.

If you're stitching for yourself (as an altar charm, for example), light your favorite incense, play your favorite music, and stitch with peace in mind. If you're creating a token for someone else, think of them and your memories together.

2. Add your protective circle

Using black floss for protection, stitch your circle. Listen to powerful music or concentrate on your strengths. If you work with a saint or deity, now is the best time to invoke their help. Envision a canopy over your animal and firmly stitch the protection in place (I like to make these stitches a bit tighter).

Using green floss, add the leaves to your circle to encourage your magic to blossom and grow.

3. Crown your work

Another traditional symbol in needlework, the crown represents authority, divinity, and achievement. I've used orange thread to amplify success.

Now that you've channeled your protective energy into your circle, it's time to once again be at peace and focus on love as you stitch your crown. Be sure to relax your muscles. With your final stitch, seal your intention in place.

(All patterns are free for personal use. Please share only with explicit credit.)