PickSmartly Review

Best Glass Cross Stitch Patterns in 2026

8.6 PM Score
Products Evaluated
10
Reviews Analyzed
339
Brands Ranked
2
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Cross stitching on glass is a specialized niche that bridges the gap between traditional textile art and delicate home decor. Unlike standard fabric-based embroidery, glass cross stitch kits focus on creating intricate, translucent designs that interact with light, often intended for use in suncatchers, ornaments, or decorative window panels. Because you are working with a rigid, non-porous surface rather than woven threads, the technical requirements for your materials and the complexity of the patterns are significantly higher. This guide will help you navigate the nuances of selecting high-quality kits that ensure a successful, frustration-free crafting experience.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Glass Cross Stitch Patterns

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

Santa with Cardinal Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2019 Jim Shore JS201913

Mill Hill Jim Shore Santa with Cardinal Ornament Kit

4.6 (79 ratings)
MILL HILL JS201913 5.00 X 5.00 X 0.50 Inches 0.06 Pounds

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

8.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Santa with Cardinal is one in a collection of six 2019 Jim Shore Christmas ornament kits: Nordic Santa, Kitty, Santa with Cardinal, Snowman with Cardinal, Puppy, and Nordic Snowman
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • Approximate Design Size: 3 inches wide x 5 inches high (8.8 cm x 12.7m)
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count White Perforated Paper, floss, and needles needed to complete the cross stitched piece
  • Each ornament will bring distinction to your cross stitch collection. Enjoy them on a tree, wreath or swag this holiday season.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Prime Offerings 9.92 Yes Yes Yes

You might wonder if a small craft kit can actually deliver a high-end holiday look, but this Mill Hill set proves that detail is everything. The Santa with Cardinal design captures that iconic Jim Shore aesthetic, making it feel like a piece of heirloom art rather than a quick weekend project. Since it comes fully loaded with 14 count white perforated paper, Mill Hill glass beads, floss, and needles, you won't be hunting for extra supplies mid-stitch. At roughly 3 by 5 inches, it is the perfect scale for adding a sophisticated, handmade touch to a Christmas tree, wreath, or holiday swag. It is a complete, cohesive experience for anyone looking to expand their seasonal cross-stitch collection with something truly distinctive.

What We Like
Complete stitching kit
Jim Shore design
Includes glass beads
Perforated paper included
Handmade holiday decor

Gingerbread Cottage Beaded Counted Cross Stitch Christmas Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2015 Winter Holiday MH185305

Mill Hill Gingerbread Cottage Beaded Ornament Kit

4.7 (66 ratings)
MILL HILL MH185305 5.10 X 0.50 X 4.00 Inches 0.03 Pounds

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

8.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill Treasures, Mill Hill Perforated Paper, magnet, and floss needed to complete the stitched project
  • Kit with complete instructions including cross stitch graph
  • Mill Hill 2015 Winter Holiday Collection: Sweater Weather, Christmas Letter, Snowshoes, Pinecone, Gingerbread Cottage, Candlelight
  • Approximate Finished Size: 2.75 x 2.75 inches (7 cm x 7 cm)
  • Use as a Christmas ornament with floss loop, attach Velcro or pin back (none included), display in a frame, or create your own display idea!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Lowell's General Store 5.50 No No No

Can a tiny piece of hand-stitched art actually transform your holiday decor? This Mill Hill Gingerbread Cottage kit proves that small-scale craftsmanship makes a massive impact. As part of the 2015 Winter Holiday Collection, this kit provides everything you need to create a charming 2.75-inch ornament, including premium glass beads, Mill Hill Treasures, perforated paper, and necessary floss. I love how versatile the finished piece is. You can hang it with the included floss loop, use the magnet for a fridge display, or even pin it to a seasonal wreath. It is a complete, beginner-friendly project that delivers a high-end, textured look thanks to those signature glass beads, making it a perfect cozy activity for a snowy afternoon.

What We Like
Premium glass beads
Complete stitching kit
Versatile display options
Compact finished size
Includes magnetic backing

Sea Turtle Beaded Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2016 Spring Bouquet MH181611

Mill Hill Sea Turtle Beaded Cross Stitch Ornament Kit

4.5 (66 ratings)
MILL HILL MH181611 4.00 X 0.50 X 5.00 Inches

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

7.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill Treasures, Mill Hill Painted Perforated Paper, magnet, and floss needed to complete the stitched project
  • Kit with complete instructions including cross stitch graph
  • Mill Hill Spring Bouquet 2016 Collection: Dragonfly Egg, Fancy Fish, Fireflies, Fishing Vest, Ladybug Egg, and Sea Turtle
  • Finished Size: 2.5 x 3 inches (6.4 x 7.6 cm) Design Size: 35 stitches wide x 42 high
  • Use as a decorative ornament with floss loop, attach Velcro or pin back (none included), display in a frame, or create your own display idea!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Prime Offerings 9.92 Yes Yes Yes

Most hobbyists settle for flat, printed decorations, but this Mill Hill kit transforms a simple craft into a shimmering, three-dimensional piece of art. The Sea Turtle design from the 2016 Spring Bouquet collection offers a tactile experience that standard embroidery simply cannot match, thanks to the inclusion of premium Mill Hill glass beads. Everything you need to succeed is tucked inside the box, from the painted perforated paper to the specific floss and magnets. At a compact 2.5 by 3 inches, it is a manageable project that yields a high-end result. Whether you use the included floss loop to hang it or attach your own pin back, the finished ornament feels like a bespoke heirloom rather than a quick weekend craft.

What We Like
Glass bead accents
Complete kit contents
Painted perforated paper
Includes magnetic backing
Detailed stitch graph

Nordic Snowman Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2019 Jim Shore JS201916

Mill Hill Jim Shore Nordic Snowman Ornament Kit

4.9 (55 ratings)
MILL HILL JS201916 5.00 X 5.00 X 0.50 Inches 0.03 Pounds

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

7.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Nordic Snowman is one in a collection of six 2019 Jim Shore Christmas ornament kits: Nordic Santa, Kitty, Santa with Cardinal, Snowman with Cardinal, Puppy, and Nordic Snowman
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • Approximate Design Size: 4 inches wide x 5 inches high (8.8 cm x 12.7m)
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count White Perforated Paper, floss, and needles needed to complete the cross stitched piece
  • Each ornament will bring distinction to your cross stitch collection. Enjoy them on a tree, wreath or swag this holiday season.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Discount1 8.55 No No No

Holiday crafters looking to elevate their seasonal decor with professional-grade artistry need this Mill Hill kit immediately. The Nordic Snowman design brings that iconic Jim Shore charm to your needlework, offering a sophisticated alternative to standard store-bought ornaments. Because this kit is incredibly comprehensive, you won't be hunting for supplies mid-project. It arrives with everything from 14-count white perforated paper and specialized floss to the signature Mill Hill glass beads and needles. At roughly 4 by 5 inches, it is the perfect scale for adding a touch of distinction to a Christmas tree, wreath, or holiday swag. Whether you are starting this as a solo project or collecting all six designs from the 2019 series, the result is a polished, heirloom-quality piece.

What We Like
Complete kit contents
Jim Shore design
Mill Hill glass beads
Perforated paper included
Ornament scale

Jim Shore Best Friend Santa Counted Cross Stitch Kit-5x5 18 Count

Jim Shore Best Friend Santa Cross Stitch Kit

JIM SHORE JS205106 5.00 X 5.00 X 5.00 Inches 0.80 ounces

Reviews for JIM SHORE (PM Score)

7.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Best Friend Santa features Santa's favorite dog, one of three unique Santa Claus stitchery pieces from the award winning artist Jim Shore. The 2015 Winter Series consists of Best Friend, Greetings, and Early Mornings Santas as well as Snowy Owl, Pinecone, and Evergreen Snowmen.
  • Kit with complete instructions including cross stitch graph
  • Kit includes Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count Perforated Paper, floss, needles, and chart with complete illustrated instructions.
  • Design Size: 3.25 inches wide x X5 inches high (8.3 x 12.7 cm).
  • Use as a Christmas ornament with floss loop, attach Velcro or pin back (none included), display in a frame, or create your own display idea!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThingamaJungle 9.98 Yes Yes Yes

Most holiday crafts end up tucked away in a storage bin, but this Jim Shore kit is designed to be a permanent fixture in your seasonal decor. Featuring Santa and his faithful dog, this piece captures the whimsical, folk-art essence that makes Shore’s work so recognizable. The kit is impressively comprehensive, providing everything from Mill Hill glass beads and 14-count perforated paper to the necessary floss and needles. At a compact 3.25 by 5 inches, it is the perfect scale for a quick weekend project. Once finished, you aren't stuck with just a piece of fabric. You can easily turn it into a hanging ornament with a floss loop or mount it in a frame for a more traditional display.

What We Like
Mill Hill beads included
Complete stitching kit
Jim Shore artwork
Versatile holiday decor
Compact design size

Gift Giving Snowman Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2020 Jim Shore JS202011

Jim Shore Gift Giving Snowman Cross Stitch Ornament Kit

JIM SHORE JS202011 5.00 X 3.50 X 0.50 Inches

Reviews for JIM SHORE (PM Score)

5.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Gift Giving Snowman is one in a collection of six 2020 Jim Shore Christmas ornament kits: Gift Giving Snowman, Feathered Friends Snowman, Clean Sweep Snowman, Winter Wishes Santa, Gift Bearing Santa, Candy Cane Santa
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • Approximate Design Size: 3.5 inches wide x 5 inches high (8.8 cm x 12.7m)
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count White Perforated Paper, floss, and needles needed to complete the cross stitched piece
  • Each ornament will bring distinction to your cross stitch collection. Enjoy them on a tree, wreath or swag this holiday season
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Austiners 7.85 No No No

The shimmer of Mill Hill glass beads catches the light beautifully against the textured 14-count white perforated paper. This Jim Shore ornament kit is a delightful project for anyone looking to add a handcrafted touch to their holiday decor. You get everything necessary to complete the Gift Giving Snowman, from the floss and needles to the detailed cross stitch pattern and illustrations. At roughly 3.5 inches wide and 5 inches high, it is the perfect size to hang on a Christmas tree, wreath, or holiday swag. Since it is part of a six-piece collection featuring various snowmen and Santas, it serves as a wonderful way to build a cohesive, festive set that brings real distinction to your seasonal stitching collection.

What We Like
Mill Hill glass beads
Complete stitching kit
Jim Shore design
Perforated paper included
Ornament size 3.5x5

Gift Bearing Santa Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2020 Jim Shore JS202015

Jim Shore Gift Bearing Santa Cross Stitch Ornament Kit

JIM SHORE JS202015 5.00 X 3.50 X 0.50 Inches

Reviews for JIM SHORE (PM Score)

5.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Gift Bearing Santa is one in a collection of six 2020 Jim Shore Christmas ornament kits: Gift Giving Snowman, Feathered Friends Snowman, Clean Sweep Snowman, Winter Wishes Santa, Gift Bearing Santa, Candy Cane Santa
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • Approximate Design Size: 3.5 inches wide x 5 inches high (8.8 cm x 12.7m)
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count White Perforated Paper, floss, and needles needed to complete the cross stitched piece
  • Each ornament will bring distinction to your cross stitch collection. Enjoy them on a tree, wreath or swag this holiday season
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Austiners 8.04 No No No

This Jim Shore holiday ornament kit delivers a sophisticated DIY experience for anyone looking to add a touch of folk-art charm to their seasonal decor. As part of a curated six-piece 2020 collection, the Gift Bearing Santa design stands out for its intricate detail and festive spirit. You aren't just getting a pattern. The kit is a comprehensive package containing Mill Hill glass beads, 14-count white perforated paper, necessary floss, and needles. Measuring approximately 3.5 by 5 inches, it is the perfect scale for hanging on a Christmas tree, wreath, or holiday swag. Whether you are an experienced stitcher or a collector of Jim Shore designs, the included illustrations and clear instructions make this a rewarding project that brings genuine distinction to your handmade holiday collection.

What We Like
Complete stitching kit
Mill Hill glass beads
Jim Shore design
Perforated paper included
Handmade holiday decor

Gnome with Wreath Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2022 Jim Shore Santa Gnomes JS202212

Mill Hill Jim Shore Christmas Gnome Ornament Kit

MILL HILL JS202212 5.00 X 2.40 X 0.40 inches

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

4.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Gnome with Wreath is one in a collection of five 2022 Jim Shore Christmas Gnome ornament kits: Gnome with Tree, Gnome with Wreath, Gnome Holding Gifts, Gnome Holding Holly, and Gnome with Ornaments
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count Perforated Paper, floss, and needles needed to complete the cross stitched piece
  • Approximate Design Size: 2.4 inches wide x 5 inches high (6.1 cm x 12.7 cm)
  • Each ornament will bring distinction to your cross stitch collection. Enjoy them on a tree, wreath or swag this holiday season
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Austiners 8.04 No No No

After weeks of working through the fine details, seeing this little gnome come to life is incredibly rewarding. This Mill Hill kit features the charming Jim Shore design of a gnome with a wreath, offering a perfect micro-project for holiday crafters. Everything you need is tucked inside the box, from the 14 count perforated paper and needles to the signature Mill Hill glass beads that add a beautiful shimmer to the finished piece. At roughly 2.4 inches wide by 5 inches high, it is a compact treasure that feels substantial once completed. Whether you hang it on a tree or tuck it into a seasonal wreath, the combination of cross stitch and beadwork brings a sophisticated, handmade distinction to your holiday decor collection.

What We Like
Jim Shore design
Mill Hill glass beads
Complete embroidery kit
Perforated paper included
Compact ornament size

Mill Hill Haunted Cottage Beaded Counted Cross Stitch Kit 2023 Buttons & Beads Autumn MH142324

Mill Hill Haunted Cottage Beaded Cross Stitch Kit

MILL HILL MH142324 5.00 X 5.00 X 0.45 Inches

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill Ceramic Button, Mill Hill 14 Count Painted Perforated Paper, floss, and chart with instructions needed to complete the stitched project
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • Mill Hill 2023 Buttons & Beads Autumn Collection: Spotted Cow, Wanda's Clothesline, Hello Autumn, Haunted Cottage, Hayride, Into the Woods
  • Approximate Design Size: 5.25 x 5.25 inches (13.3 x 13.3 cm)
  • Recommended: 6 x 6 Matte Blue Mill Hill Solid Color Wooden Frame GBFRM2 (sold separately)
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

Seasonal crafters obsessed with spooky-chic aesthetics absolutely need the Haunted Cottage kit to elevate their autumn decor. This isn't just another embroidery project. It is a meticulously curated experience from the Mill Hill 2023 Buttons & Beads Autumn Collection that blends texture and charm. I love how the kit provides everything from the specialized glass beads and ceramic button to the 14 count painted perforated paper. The design is compact at roughly 5.25 inches, making it a perfect accent piece for a seasonal display. Since it comes with complete instructions and a detailed chart, you won't be hunting for extra floss or supplies mid-stitch. It creates a sophisticated, tactile piece of art that feels much more high-end than standard cross stitch.

What We Like
Glass bead accents
Ceramic button detail
Complete stitching kit
Painted perforated paper
Autumn themed design

Ladybug Counted Cross Stitch Ornament Kit Mill Hill 2022 Springtime Beaded Collection MH212215, Multi

Mill Hill Ladybug Beaded Cross Stitch Ornament Kit

MILL HILL MH212215 2.50 X 2.50 X 0.25 Inches

Reviews for MILL HILL (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • The Ladybug kit includes all Mill Hill Glass Beads, Mill Hill 14 Count Painted Perforated Paper, floss, chart, and complete instructions to complete the stitched piece.
  • Kit comes with complete instructions including cross stitch pattern and illustrations
  • 2022 Springtime Beaded Collection: Pink Flower, Purple Flower, Aqua Flower, Dragonfly, Ladybug, Bee
  • Approximate Finished Size: 2.58 x 2.5 inches (6.6 x 6.4 cm)
  • Use as a hanging ornament, a wrapped package ornament, a brooch, a refrigerator magnet -- and many more
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Austiners 7.89 No No No

Can a tiny piece of hand-stitched art truly transform a seasonal decoration? This Mill Hill kit proves that intricate detail matters more than sheer scale. Part of the 2022 Springtime Beaded Collection, this ladybug project is a delight for anyone who finds peace in needlework. It arrives with everything necessary to succeed, including high-quality glass beads, 14-count painted perforated paper, and the required floss. The instructions are remarkably clear, featuring both a detailed chart and helpful illustrations to guide your stitching. Once finished, the 2.5-inch piece is surprisingly versatile. You can hang it as a traditional ornament, pin it on as a brooch, or even turn it into a charming refrigerator magnet. It is a compact, rewarding project that brings a polished, professional look to your handmade crafts.

What We Like
Mill Hill glass beads
Complete stitching kit
Versatile decorative uses
Detailed illustrated instructions
Compact finished size
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Glass Cross Stitch Kits

A Guide to Selecting the Best Glass Cross Stitch Kits

Understanding the Substrate and Thread Compatibility

The most critical factor in a glass cross stitch kit is the quality of the glass itself. When browsing kits, you must determine if the pattern is designed for pre-drilled glass beads, specialized glass canvases, or if it is a pattern intended to be applied to glass using specific embroidery-style techniques. High-quality kits will feature glass that is perfectly smooth, free of air bubbles, and possesses uniform thickness. If the glass is uneven, your tension will be inconsistent, leading to gaps in your design. Furthermore, ensure the kit provides thread that is compatible with glass surfaces—typically high-sheen silks or specialized synthetic threads that won't snag on the edges of the glass perforations.

Complexity and Stitch Density

Glass cross stitching requires a different approach to stitch density than cotton Aida cloth. Because the 'holes' in glass are often larger and less forgiving, a pattern that looks simple on paper might be difficult to execute in practice. Look for kits that provide a clear stitch count and a detailed legend. For beginners, I recommend kits with lower stitch counts and larger perforations. As you advance, you may want to seek out 'full coverage' patterns where the stitches are intended to sit closely together to create a stained-glass effect. Pay close attention to the pattern's color transitions. Since glass allows light to pass through, colors will appear more vibrant and potentially more transparent than they do on a printed pattern sheet.

The Importance of Kit Completeness

A premium glass cross stitch kit should be a true 'all-in-one' solution. Because glass is a specialty medium, sourcing the correct needle type—specifically one with a very slim, polished eye to prevent cracking the glass—can be difficult. A high-quality kit will include these specialized needles, the correct amount of thread (with a little extra for error), and a high-quality pattern. Avoid kits that only provide the pattern without specifying the exact diameter of the glass holes, as this will lead to a mismatch between your thread and your substrate.

Light Interaction and Aesthetic Goals

Before purchasing, consider where the finished piece will live. If the goal is a suncatcher, look for patterns that utilize a variety of thread colors to play with refraction. Some kits are designed to be 'opaque,' meaning the stitching covers the glass entirely, while others are 'translucent,' designed to let light dance through the gaps. If you want a piece that glows, prioritize kits that offer a diverse palette of shimmering or metallic threads. If you want a more modern, minimalist look, look for patterns with geometric shapes and high-contrast color blocks that emphasize the clarity of the glass.

Recommendation Logic

When deciding between two kits, use this hierarchy: First, prioritize the quality of the glass (smoothness and hole uniformity). Second, evaluate the completeness of the kit (needle and thread inclusion). Third, choose based on your skill level—if you are new to this medium, do not attempt a high-density pattern, as the lack of fabric 'give' makes mistakes much harder to correct on glass than on cloth.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Glass Cross Stitch Patterns before you buy.

Glass cross stitch kits focus on designs specifically optimized for transparency and light refraction, often intended to be displayed in glass frames, shadow boxes, or etched onto glass surfaces rather than traditional linen.

Most kits provide the high-quality thread, specialized fabric, and pattern instructions, but the glass frame or decorative glass pane is often sold separately to allow for custom sizing.

It depends on the complexity of the design. While the stitching technique is the same as traditional embroidery, the visual effect of light passing through the design can make color blending slightly more intricate for novices.

To maximize the aesthetic impact, these patterns should be placed near natural light sources or behind LED-lit shadow boxes to highlight the translucency of the stitches.

Yes, most kits are designed to work with standard stranded cotton floss, though some premium kits may include specialized metallic or silk threads to enhance the light-catching properties.

Avoid washing the fabric directly if it is part of a composite display. Instead, use a soft, dry brush to remove dust from the surface of the threads to prevent buildup behind the glass.

Yes, the glass adds a layer of depth and can slightly shift the perceived saturation of the colors due to light refraction, often making the colors appear more luminous.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Glass Cross Stitch Patterns

339 Reviews Analyzed
10 Products Evaluated
5.5 Avg PM Score
2 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Glass Cross Stitch Patterns Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Mill Hill 7 (70%)
  2. 02 Jim Shore 3 (30%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 339 reviews on Glass Cross Stitch Patterns, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the crafts, hobbies & home. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Glass Cross Stitch Patterns priced around $13.27.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 10 Glass Cross Stitch Patterns for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right kits Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Glass Cross Stitch Patterns to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.