Fern Flower_Pattern for stitching

This is a pattern for stitching
Skill level – advanced
Techniques – Blackwork, Canvaswork, Couching Stitch.
Size – 178w x 230h stitches
finished measurements:
designed area 18cm x 22.5cm (7” x 9”)
Fabric – Pewter Lugana 25 count, Navy colour.
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Fern Flower
‘Paparać-Kvetka’

This design is my rendition of our ancient, but still most beloved legend about the Fern Flower and all the myths associated with the Kupala Night, which together have become the most popular symbols of Belarusian culture.


Deep in the forests of Belarus lies the elusive Fern Flower, steeped in ancient magic and mystery.
According to Belarusan folklore, the Fern-Flower blooms solely only on the shortest night of the year, the Summer Solstice, revered as the Koupala-Night holyday in Belarusan tradition.
Legend holds that whoever discovers the Fern-Flower shall be bestowed with great fortune and extraordinary powers. Possession of this enchanted blossom grants the ability to comprehend the language of animals, unveil hidden treasures, and effortlessly bypass any obstacle, whether it be a lock or a spell. Each tale weaves its narrative of the flower’s gifts, with some (the most romantic) luring the young in search of love’s favour.
The legend continues with the quest for the Fern Flower must be undertaken alone in darkness, as malevolent spirits fiercely guard its secrets, making the journey perilous and arduous. These spirits convene during the Koupala-Night, seeking to disrupt the sacred Union of the Great Sun and the Earth, celebrated on this auspicious occasion.
Throughout the Koupala-Night festivities, people engage in various magical rituals to honour the Union of the celestial and terrestrial realms. The night is filled with joyous revelry, as bonfires illuminate the darkness, dancers twirl around them, and songs of old are sung. Maidens craft garlands of wildflowers to divine their fortunes, releasing them into the flowing waters of rivers.
In homage to this cherished tradition, I have fashioned my rendition of the Fern flower, shaped in the likeness of the traditional eight-pointed star. Within the design, I incorporated the geometric symbol of the Fern and the emblem of the celestial Union, nestled in the upper left corner.
May the stitching of this magical Fern Flower bestow upon you all its wondrous blessings and benefits.