Ready to stitch something irresistibly charming? This free hand embroidery pattern features a sweet cartoon otter poking its body out of the water—with a smile that’s guaranteed to make you grin. Whether you’re an embroidery newbie or seasoned stitcher, this otter is a playful way to add personality to your next hoop.
Before We Begin: Fun Otter Facts
Because what’s a stitching session without a dash of otter trivia?
- Global Residents: Otters live in rivers, lakes, wetlands, and coastal oceans across every continent except Antarctica.
- Species Count: There are 13 known otter species, ranging from the tiny Asian small-clawed otter to the hefty giant otter of South America.
- Playful Nature: Otters are famously playful—they slide down mud banks, juggle pebbles, and enjoy belly flops.
- Tool Users: Sea otters use rocks to crack open shellfish—a rare trait in the animal kingdom!
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DMC Color Suggestions
To capture the whimsy of this otter and its peaceful setting, here are some recommended thread colors:
- Otter Body: DMC 3799 – Dark Gray for sleek fur
- Facial Details & Paws: DMC 310 – Black for outlines and expression
- Water (Vibrant Option): DMC 996 – Electric Blue
- Water (Softer Option): DMC 518 – Light Blue
- Dimples on Cheeks: DMC 604 – Light Pink for a blush of cuteness
Stitch Recommendations
Let’s keep it simple and sweet!
- Back Stitch: Use for outlining the otter and water shapes. Clean and easy, perfect for curves and detail.
- French Knots: Dot those dimples with French knots using pink floss—just a couple knots bring a lot of character.
- Optional: Satin stitch to fill in tiny areas, like the nose or blush spots, for added texture.
Next, you’ll need some supplies:
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- Fabric: A piece of light-colored cotton or linen works best.
- Embroidery Hoop: A 6-inch hoop is a good size for this project.
- Embroidery Needle: A size 7 or 8 needle is ideal.
- DMC Floss Colors (suggestions above)
- Scissors: Small, sharp embroidery scissors for cutting thread.
- Water-Soluble Fabric Marker: To transfer the pattern onto fabric.
Grab Your Free Pattern
Here’s how to get your otter pattern: enter your email address in the form below. You’ll be subscribed to my awesome weekly newsletter and be the first to know when a new pattern is available. The welcome email you receive will contain the password to open this pattern and all the other patterns on this site.
Tips for Beginners:
- Practice your stitches on a scrap piece of fabric before starting your project.
- Don’t pull your thread too tightly to avoid puckering the fabric.
- Have fun experimenting with colors and stitches—make your mice as vibrant and unique as you like!
If you are looking for some other free patterns to practice backstitching, why not try:
Or you can try my Etsy Store, where I have over 260 patterns available.
