Fabric count: number of crosses for embroidery fabrics
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Aida embroidery fabrics use a number of crosses per cm or per inch. This is the fabric count of cross stitch embroidery.
The term "14 count" is often used. This means that there are 14 stitches per inch. For a 14 count, this is 5.5 stitches per cm. Below you'll find an overview of the most commonly used sizes.
A higher number means more crosses per cm or inch , meaning smaller crosses. The entire image will be smaller.
A lower number means fewer crosses per cm/inch , making each cross larger. The entire image becomes larger.
| 11 count/crosses per in | 4.5 crosses per cm |
| 14 count/crosses per in | 5.5 crosses per cm |
| 16 count/crosses per in | 6.3 crosses per cm |
| 18 count/crosses per in | 7.1 crosses per cm |
What will the size of my full cross stitch embroidery be?
Depending on the fabric you choose, your entire image will be larger or smaller. In this example, the design is 100 x 100 stitches.
With 11 count (4.5 crosses/cm) fabric: approx. 22 x 22 cm/8,6 x 8,6 in
With 1 4 count (5.5 crosses/cm) fabric: approx. 18 x 18 cm/7 x 7 in
With 16 count (6.3 crosses/cm) fabric: approx. 15 x 15 cm/5,9 x 5,9 in
With 18 count (7.1 crosses/cm) fabric: approx. 14 x 14 cm/5,5 x 5,5 in
The size of your fabric depening on the amount of stitches that an embroidery design has.
Our embroidery patterns include final approximate sizes for the various fabric counts. Look at the sizes anc choose what fits your style or idea. You can also calculate your size with calculator tools online. If you search for 'cross stitch calculator' you'll find many tools to help you determine the size of your embroidery.
Keep in mind to keep enough space around your embroidery stitch design, so that there's always a wide border around your entire cross stitch design. This way you avoid having too little fabric for your project. It's better to use too much fabric than too little: you can always cut the extra fabric off later. I always keep at least 5 cm/2 in extra fabric on all sides of my embroidery design.
Image by Lisa Kievits: Aida 18 count/7,1 cr per cm