Aida is the woven fabric most cross stitchers start on. Its threads are grouped into little squares with a hole at each corner, so every cross stitch sits neatly in one square. The count is how many of those squares fit in one inch.
How the count changes the size
A pattern always has the same number of stitches. On a higher count the squares are smaller, so the same design comes out smaller. To get the finished size, divide the number of stitches by the count:
finished inches = stitches ÷ fabric count
| Design (stitches) | 11-count | 14-count | 16-count | 18-count |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 × 30 | 2.7 in | 2.1 in | 1.9 in | 1.7 in |
| 60 × 60 | 5.5 in | 4.3 in | 3.8 in | 3.3 in |
| 100 × 100 | 9.1 in | 7.1 in | 6.3 in | 5.6 in |
Leave at least 3 inches of extra fabric on every side for a hoop or framing.
Which count to choose
- 11-count: big squares that are easy to see. Good for children, beginners and anyone who finds small holes tiring.
- 14-count: the most common choice and the one most patterns are designed for. A good balance of size and detail.
- 16-count: slightly finer. Designs look neater and smaller.
- 18-count: fine and detailed, popular for ornaments, bookmarks and small gifts. Needs good light.
Strands of floss for each count
Six-strand embroidery floss is separated before stitching. The goal is to cover the fabric without the stitches looking bulky.
| Fabric | Strands for cross stitch | Strands for backstitch | Tapestry needle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11-count Aida | 3 | 2 | 22 or 24 |
| 14-count Aida | 2 | 1 | 24 or 26 |
| 16-count Aida | 2 | 1 | 26 |
| 18-count Aida | 1 or 2 | 1 | 26 or 28 |
Tapestry needles have a blunt tip that slides through the holes without splitting the fabric threads. A higher needle number means a finer needle.
What about evenweave and linen?
Evenweave and linen are woven from single threads, and you usually stitch "over two" threads. That halves the count: 28-count evenweave stitched over two gives the same size as 14-count Aida. If you choose evenweave in a pattern maker, use half its count to work out the size.
Colored fabric
Aida comes in many colors. Light colors suit most patterns. Dark fabric makes pale and metallic threads glow; our moon and stars pattern is designed for navy or black Aida.