Free Deer head cross stitch pattern

Well I've finished my cross stitch pattern design and even finished the actual cross stitch!
I'm very happy with the results. It's been a while since I've done any cross stitch but I really enjoyed it. Successful cross stitch I think is all down to your ability to count and a little bit of map reading thrown in. I used approximately 16 count Aida (it was a bit I had left over) with one skillet of black floss split into three pieces of cotton at a time as the Aida weave was very fine. The finished deer's head measures 16cm.

I started my design work using an old envelope which had a very useful grid pattern on the inside. However it was very small (can you spot my mistakes!) so I made a digital copy of the pattern which you can download and use for free here. Please note this pattern is for personal use only. 

Here I have already hung up my cross stitch in my hallway. Now I have to decide what to have a go at designing next.

Do it yourself deer Cross Stitch pattern

I've been playing around with the idea of designing my own cross stitch patterns. I used to do a lot of cross stitch when I was younger and it seems to have come back in fashion. I've seen a lot of very simple silhouettes on craft blogs so thought this would be a simple way to start . I also love the use of deer heads in interiors at the moment and thought a deer's head cross stitch would be the perfect addition to my home. I will keep you posted on my progress.