Stitch ERIN PAISLEY Motifs with the COSMOS Floss Palette
By SUBLIME STITCHING Contemporary Embroidery Design since 2001 | Published: 2026-11-05
Category: How-to Guides
A step-by-step guide to transferring and stitching the ERIN PAISLEY PDF pattern, with practical advice on using the COSMOS floss palette for balanced paisley color.
Quick answer
Transfer the ERIN PAISLEY design using Sublime Stitching transfer supplies, then stitch the largest paisley shapes first with the COSMOS floss palette, saving fine outlines and accents for last so your color placement stays balanced.
Why stitch the big shapes before the details
Paisley motifs are built from layered, curved forms. If you stitch the small outlines first, you risk crowding the space where the larger shapes need to sit. Working from the largest area to the smallest also lets you adjust thread colors as you see how the palette reads on fabric.
The COSMOS palette includes three greys plus two each of black and white, which are useful for defining edges and adding contrast without introducing a new hue. Keep those neutrals for the final outlines and separators.
When to deviate from the color guide
The ERIN PAISLEY PDF includes a color guide, but it is a starting point, not a rule. If your fabric is dark or heavily patterned, you may need to swap in lighter floss from the COSMOS palette or add more white for visibility. Test a small stitch on a scrap of the same fabric before committing to the full motif.
Step-by-step: stitching ERIN PAISLEY with COSMOS floss
- Transfer the design: Print the PDF at 100% scale and transfer the motif using Carbon Transfer Papers or Transfer Pens, following the included instructions. Check the reversed version if you want a mirrored design. Common mistake: stretching the fabric during transfer distorts the curves. Keep the fabric taut but not pulled.
- Sort your COSMOS palette: Separate the seven skeins into warm, cool, and neutral groups. Pull out the three greys and the black and white for outlines and separators. Decide which colors will fill the largest paisley shapes. Checkpoint: lay the threads on the fabric to see contrast before you thread a needle.
- Stitch the largest shapes first: Begin with the biggest paisley forms using satin stitch or long-and-short stitch, working from the center outward. Keep your stitches smooth and follow the curve of each shape. Common mistake: stitching too tightly pulls the fabric and makes the motif pucker. Let the thread relax.
- Add medium details: Fill in the smaller inner shapes and secondary motifs using a contrasting color from the palette. Use the greys to create depth where shapes overlap. Checkpoint: step back frequently to judge the overall color balance.
- Outline and accent last: Use black, white, or a grey to outline the paisley edges with split stitch or backstitch. Add fine accents such as dots or small lines with a single strand. Common mistake: outlining too heavily can overpower the filled shapes. Keep outlines thin and consistent.
- Finish and press: Weave in all ends on the back, then press the embroidery face down on a towel. Avoid pressing directly on the stitches to keep them raised. Checkpoint: ensure no threads show through the front before pressing.
Product facts
- ERIN PAISLEY for Sublime Stitching - PDF Embroidery Pattern: The PDF includes transfer instructions, a reversed version, a color guide, and three stitching lessons. You get built-in guidance for both transferring and stitching, so you can start even if you are new to paisley motifs.

ERIN PAISLEY for Sublime Stitching - PDF Embroidery Pattern - COSMOS - Sublime Embroidery Floss Palette: The COSMOS palette contains seven 8.75-yard skeins, including three greys and two each of black and white. The neutral selection helps you outline and separate paisley shapes without adding extra colors to your palette.

COSMOS - Sublime Embroidery Floss Palette

