One of the most recognizable images of Christmas has to be Santa Claus. Counted cross stitch patterns featuring this merry gentleman in his cheery red and white suit are produced in great numbers. You may know Santa by one of his other names, however: Sinterklaas, Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas or Kris Kringle, depending on where in the world you live.

Santa is so popular that you will find patterns to stitch from almost all the cross stitch design companies. In addition to riding on his sleigh you will find him stuck in chimneys, carrying sacks of toys, checking his Christmas list or resting in his rocking chair after a busy night delivering gifts around the world.

You will often find Santa Claus counted cross stitch patterns that use the modern red and white colours, but he has also been known to wear blue, purple and green outfits. Other seasonal designs use the same colour theme. Just think of Rudolph with his red nose that lights the way on Christmas Eve, red holly berries, red candles and crisp white snow.

Of course Christmas isn't the only religious holiday celebrated in December. Counted cross stitch decorations may feature symbols relating to different beliefs, such as Jewish Menorahs or the sacred trees of the Druids. Even where Christmas is celebrated, the weather isn't necessarily cold. In Australia it is the middle of summer and you are more likely to find Santa sunning himself on the beach than wrapped up in furs.

In colder climates, children traditionally hang stockings beside a roaring log fire hoping to find them filled with gifts come Christmas morning. Santa Claus counted cross stitch designs are the perfect decoration for these stockings, creating a keepsake to be used year after year. With the child's name or initials added to the cuff you may find they continue to be used into adulthood.

Ornaments can also be stitched in cross stitch, crewel work, patchwork or applique and brought out each year to decorate the Christmas tree. Whether worked from a kit or a design of your own they bring back memories of times past and skills aquired.

So this year why not start early and incorporate Santa Claus counted cross stitch designs in your own Christmas preparations.