Remember Stardew Valley patterns? Yes, I love them so much. But some of the patterns are kind of hard to trace. So sewinginspo readers reach out to us asking for an easy straw valley. And what can be easier than junior cross stitch?
None! Junimo cross stitch pattern is easy. Cause all you have to do is,
junimo
To do a Junimo cross stitch by hand, simply follow a pixel-style pattern of the Junimo using cross-stitches on Aida fabric, one square (X) per pixel.
I know my readers. They won’t be satisfied with just a short description. They need full case study. So here you go.
Table of Contents
Stardew Valley How To Read Junimo
Reading a Junimo cross-stitch pattern from Stardew Valley is just like reading any other counted cross-stitch chart. But with a cozy, pixel-art twist.
Here’s how to get started (especially if you’re new or just Stardew-obsessed like me!)
- Each square on the pattern equals one cross stitch on your fabric.
- There’s usually a legend (or key) showing which symbol equals which floss color (like DMC 310 = black square).
- Junimos are pixel-style, so 14-count Aida is perfect for keeping that chunky-cute look.
- Most patterns mark the center with arrows or a bold line. Find it and match it to the center of your fabric. That way, everything fits perfectly!
Don’t stress—
Just follow the chart, stitch the matching color where the symbol appears, and slowly watch your Junimo come to life. Oh & yes,
Junimos = joy. If you’re not smiling while stitching, take a break and eat a Stardrop. 😉
How To Do Junimo Cross Stitch?
I stitched one recently (okay, maybe three… don’t judge 😅), and here’s how I did it step-by-step, with all the cozy, chaotic, and satisfying moments included.
Gather All Your Supplies
Before I even touched the needle, I made sure I had everything ready:
- The Junimo cross-stitch pattern (you can find it online or in the official Stardew Valley shop).
- 14-count Aida fabric – white or light-colored works best to make those Junimos pop!
- Embroidery floss in all the cute Junimo colors (usually DMC).
- A needle, an embroidery hoop, and a small pair of scissors.
- Optional: a highlighter or marking app to track progress (trust me, it’s a lifesaver).
Cut The Thread
I started by cutting about 18 inches of embroidery floss (you don’t want it too long—it tangles fast!).
Then, I separated out two strands since most patterns using 14-count Aida call for stitching with two strands for good coverage.
Threading the needle is sometimes the hardest part. But once I had it in, I made a little waste knot about 3 inches from the end. This helped me anchor my thread without constantly flipping the hoop.
Found The Center Of My Fabric
I found the center of my fabric by folding it in half both ways. Then I found the center of the pattern—most charts have arrows or a bolded line for this.
Once both centers lined up, I popped the fabric into my hoop, tightened it, and I was ready to summon my Junimo spirit guide.
Complete Full Cross Stitches
Junimos are made entirely of full cross stitches, which means:
- First, do a full row of half stitches in one direction (bottom left to top right).
- Then come back and complete the crosses (bottom right to top left).
For example, when stitching the body, I’d usually go:
stitch… stitch… stitch (half crosses)
then turn around and finish them all the way back.
Doing it this way keeps your stitches uniform and smooth (and honestly, it’s kind of meditative).
Work Color by Color
Since Junimos are mostly one main color (like green, purple, or blue), I’d start with the largest color block. I’d:
- Follow the symbol on the pattern for that color.
- Count carefully! Miscounting can turn your Junimo into a “What-is-that-o” real quick. 😂
- Use a highlighter or app to mark what I’d done—saves so much confusion!
Once the body was stitched, I moved on to the accent colors like the little leaf on top, the antenna, and tiny feet. Each section is small, but they really bring the character to life.
Secure Your Thread
When finishing off a color, I flipped the hoop over and ran the needle under 3-4 stitches on the back to secure the thread—no knots on the back. That keeps everything neat and smooth and avoids a messy back of the cross stitch.
Add Backstitch (If Your Pattern Has It)
Not all Junimo patterns use this, but if yours does, it’ll help outline key features like the eyes, leaf veins, or accessories. I used one strand of black thread and stitched just outside the cross-stitched areas. This step makes your Junimo “pop” off the fabric like a cartoon!
Wash, Press & Finish & Frame It
After stitching was done. I gently hand-washed the piece in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap.
I pressed it flat between two towels and ironed the back (never the front directly!). Then, I popped it into a hoop or small frame for display.
Trust me, this final step made all the difference.
It went from cute to “WOW I MADE THIS?!”
Junimo cross stitch pdf
Sounds fun, right? So here are a few pattern ideas for Junimo. Download it and practice. Or you can even make a bookmark with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Strands Of Thread Should I Use?
For stitching Junimos on 14-count Aida, use 2 strands of embroidery floss. If you’re using higher-count fabric, you might go with just 1 strand.
How Long Does It Take To Stitch A Junimo?
It depends on your speed, but on average it takes about 3–6 hours to finish a single Junimo if you’re casually stitching in the evening.
Do I Need To Backstitch My Junimo?
Not always! Some patterns include backstitching for detail (like eyes or leaves), but many Junimos look adorable without it. Totally up to you!
And That’s How I Brought My Junimo Cross Stitch to Life!
From threading that first needle to hanging it on my wall, the process felt like a mix of peaceful crafting and gaming nostalgia.
It’s like you’re stitching up your own little spirit friend, and every stitch feels like a mini hug from Pelican Town.Let me know if you want help picking your next Junimo or even combining them into one big Junimo Parade.
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