I did this project a few years ago but I was able to get it as a pattern and not as a kit. If it is still available as just a pattern that is how I would go, and use my own floss. if I remember correctly there were very few if any half cross stitches. I think it was all full stitches. Though it is a big project it really isn't that hard even for a beginning stitcher. Just take your time and you will do a great job. it is really beautiful.
I checked several places on the internet and could find no one that was selling just the pattern. I know longer have my pattern. I guess they probably make more money on kits so Janlynn did away with just patterns.
I checked the Janlynn website to see if it said what type of floss was used. From what I read it is not DMC. They only sell their own brand of floss on the website so I am pretty sure that is what you would get. I am not a fan of brands other then DMC, but that is just my opinion. When I did my pattern the pattern used DMC floss so it was no problem.