Free Sunshine Embroidery Pattern – Easy Hand Embroidery for Beginners

ByRuth Cartwright 6 January 202622 January 2026

This easy hand embroidery pattern is perfect for beginners. Download the free cute sunshine template at the bottom of this post.

I’ve included a suggestion of which embroidery stitches and floss you can use. It makes the perfect hoop art for a handmade gift.

How to print

Once you have downloaded the pattern, simply open the PDF and click on the print icon. With your printer on, it should automatically print. Remember to ensure you have a4 paper selected.

Printing on normal copier paper is fine for this template, but you may choose to print on thicker paper or even light card if you want to re-use the template multiple times.

How to transfer the pattern

I find the best way to transfer the pattern is with light behind it. That can be from a window, light pad or tablet device. It helps to illuminate the design making it easier to transfer.
Place your fabric in your hoop the opposite way you would normally stitch, so that the fabric is at the bottom of the hoops. Tighten and then lay over the template.
Trace using a water soluble pen, which can be erased when the stitching is complete with water.
Once you’ve traced the pattern, remove from the hoop and re-position in the correct way for stitching.

Pattern colour and stitch suggestions

I have chosen a colour palette of yellows. You of course can choose any colour palette you desire.
For the heart I used two strands of DMC 742 for Satin stitch
For the cheeks and smile I used two strands, DMC 743, satin stitch for the cheeks and backstitch for the mouth
For the eyes I used two stands, DMC 744, satin stitch
For the circle, I used four stands, DMC 444, backstitch
The rays of the sunshine, I used two stands, DMC 18, Long stitch.

How to finish your embroidery

You can choose to simple frame in the embroidery hoop, but this design would also look beautiful stitched into a cushion cover, used on a tote bag or even with the help of dissolvable fabric stitched on the back of a denim jacket.

However you choose to stitch it, I’d love you to share your finished projects with me on Facebook and Instagram. Tag @craftcartwright so I can see your makes.

How to download

Click on the download button. This will instantly download a easy to read PDF pattern. You can then choose to print it for transferring your pattern from paper. Or transfer your pattern directly from the screen. This works well if you have a tablet device.