A single honeybee rests on a deep pink rose, the whole scene set inside a round, vintage-style frame with a fine dotted mesh background. It’s a compact, detail-rich design — worked entirely in Gamma thread across a 200 × 200 stitch grid.
The frame and its dark mesh background are stitched throughout, which is what gives this piece its finished, cameo-like look once it’s hooped or framed. Below you’ll find the pattern facts, materials list, color key, and both the color and black & white chart downloads.
In This Article
Difficulty: Advanced
Fabric: Aida, 14–28 count
Stitch Count: 200 × 200 stitches
Finished Size: from 7.1″ × 7.1″ (28 ct) up to 14.3″ × 14.3″ (14 ct) — see the full size table in the FAQ
Colors: 60 Gamma thread colors
Estimated Time: roughly 50–85 hours, varying by skill level and stitching pace
Pattern Preview
Materials & Supplies
- This pattern download — both the Color Chart and Black & White Chart versions are included
- Aida fabric, 14 to 28 count. Recommended colors: White, Antique White, Cream, Ivory, Pale Blue, Soft Aqua, Light Oatmeal, or Natural Linen-Look Aida
- Gamma brand embroidery floss — this pattern calls for 60 Gamma thread colors (not DMC — see the color key below for exact numbers)
- Tapestry needle, size 24–26
- Embroidery scissors
- Hoop or Q-snap frame — this design is compact and square, so a standard hoop works well
- Use 2 strands of thread for all cross stitching
Tips for This Pattern
Before you start stitching
- With 60 colors to manage, sort and label your floss (bobbins or baggies marked with the Gamma numbers) before you start.
- Stitch the round frame’s outline first to anchor its position, then fill in the dotted mesh background, and finish with the rose and bee — it’s easier to keep the circle symmetrical this way.
- The bee’s wings and the frame’s ornate details use several close, similar shades — good, consistent light makes those much easier to tell apart.
- Mark off symbols as you complete them on a printed copy or with a pattern-tracking app, especially in the dense dotted background.
- If you’re used to DMC charts, keep the included color key close by rather than relying on memory — Gamma numbering doesn’t match DMC’s.
Color & Symbol Guide
Download the Pattern
Color Chart Pattern
Watch Ad to Unlock DownloadBlack & White Chart Pattern
Watch Ad to Unlock DownloadFAQ
What brand of thread does this pattern use?
This pattern is charted for Gamma brand thread, not DMC. The color key lists 60 Gamma color numbers — check it rather than a DMC number you may already know, since the two brands don’t share a numbering system.
Can I substitute DMC or Anchor thread instead of Gamma?
Yes, with a conversion chart, though matches are approximate rather than exact. Since the frame and mesh background rely on several close, dark shades, it’s worth test-stitching a small swatch in your substituted brand before committing to the full piece.
What fabric size should I use?
Finished size depends on the Aida count you choose:
| Aida Count | Finished Size |
|---|---|
| 14 ct | 14.3″ × 14.3″ / 36.3 × 36.3 cm |
| 16 ct | 12.5″ × 12.5″ / 31.8 × 31.8 cm |
| 18 ct | 11.1″ × 11.1″ / 28.2 × 28.2 cm |
| 20 ct | 10.0″ × 10.0″ / 25.4 × 25.4 cm |
| 22 ct | 9.1″ × 9.1″ / 23.1 × 23.1 cm |
| 25 ct | 8.0″ × 8.0″ / 20.3 × 20.3 cm |
| 28 ct | 7.1″ × 7.1″ / 18.1 × 18.1 cm |
Is this a full coverage design?
Yes — the frame and its dotted mesh background are stitched throughout rather than left as bare fabric, which is part of what gives the finished piece its cameo-like look.
How long does this pattern take to complete?
Plan on roughly 50–85 hours in total. This varies by stitching speed and how many colors you’re managing per session — the ornate frame detail takes a bit more care than the open mesh areas.
Are both the color and black & white charts included?
Yes, both versions are included in the download — use whichever you prefer to stitch from, or print the black & white version to mark up by hand.
Conclusion
This rose and bee design packs a lot of detail into a compact square — between the ornate frame, the dotted mesh, and the 60-color palette, it’s a satisfying project for someone ready for more of a challenge without committing to a huge canvas.
Grab both chart versions below, sort your floss, and settle in. We’d love to see your progress if you share it!
