Cross stitch fabric
Cross Stitch Fabric Counts: Aida, Evenweave and Linen Size Guide
Fabric count is stitches (Aida) or threads (evenweave and linen) per inch. 14 count Aida gives 14 stitches per inch, so a 100 stitch design is about 7.1 inches. 28 count linen stitched over two also gives 14 stitches per inch. Higher counts make smaller, finer designs.
The table below covers all 14 counts from 6 to 40, with the size a 100 by 100 stitch design finishes at on each: 7.1 inches on 14 count Aida, down to 5 inches on 20 count.
| Count | Fabric | Stitches per inch (usual) | 100 x 100 stitches | Strands | Needle | Beginner friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 count | aida | 6 | 16.7 x 16.7 in | 6 | 18 | Yes |
| 8 count | aida | 8 | 12.5 x 12.5 in | 4 to 6 | 20 | Yes |
| 11 count | aida | 11 | 9.1 x 9.1 in | 3 | 22 or 24 | Yes |
| 14 count | aida | 14 | 7.1 x 7.1 in | 2 | 24 | Yes |
| 16 count | aida | 16 | 6.3 x 6.3 in | 2 | 24 or 26 | Yes |
| 18 count | aida | 18 | 5.6 x 5.6 in | 1 to 2 | 26 or 28 | Later |
| 20 count | aida | 20 | 5 x 5 in | 1 | 28 | Later |
| 22 count | hardanger | 11 | 9.1 x 9.1 in | 1 over 1, 2 to 3 over 2 | 24 to 28 | Later |
| 25 count | evenweave | 12.5 | 8 x 8 in | 2 to 3 | 24 | Later |
| 27 count | evenweave | 13.5 | 7.4 x 7.4 in | 2 | 24 or 26 | Later |
| 28 count | evenweave | 14 | 7.1 x 7.1 in | 2 | 26 | Later |
| 32 count | linen | 16 | 6.3 x 6.3 in | 1 to 2 | 26 or 28 | Later |
| 36 count | linen | 18 | 5.6 x 5.6 in | 1 | 28 | Later |
| 40 count | linen | 20 | 5 x 5 in | 1 | 28 | Later |
Evenweave and linen rows assume stitching over two threads, which is how most patterns work them. Use the cross stitch fabric calculator for any pattern size, the floss calculator to count skeins per color, or the printable fabric count chart. New to counted work? Start with cross stitch for beginners.
Frequently asked questions
What does fabric count mean in cross stitch?
Count is how many stitchable squares or threads there are per inch. 14 count Aida has 14 stitches per inch, so a 140 stitch wide design finishes at exactly 10 inches. Evenweave and linen are counted by threads instead, and most patterns work each cross over two of them, so 28 count linen also gives 14 stitches per inch.
Which fabric count is best for beginners?
14 count Aida is the standard first fabric and the count most kits and charts assume. Its holes are easy to see and count, and at 14 stitches per inch a 100 stitch design finishes at about 7.1 inches. The beginner friendly counts here are 6, 8, 11, 14, 16; anything finer is easier as a second or third project.
How do I work out how much fabric to buy?
Divide the design stitch count by the stitches per inch, then add about 3 inches on every side for framing and finishing. A 150 by 200 stitch chart on 14 count is 10.7 by 14.3 inches, so cut at least 17 by 21 inches. The cross stitch fabric calculator does this for any count.
Does a higher count mean more work?
Not more stitches, but smaller ones. The same chart has the same stitch count on every fabric; a higher count just packs those stitches into a smaller area, so the piece finishes smaller and each stitch is harder to see. A 100 stitch design is 9.1 inches on 11 count and 5.6 inches on 18 count.
Researched from manufacturer specifications, owner manuals and verified owner reviews, not hands-on testing, and not professional advice. As an Amazon Associate, Cozy Stitchery earns from qualifying purchases.
