Cross-Stitch Calculator

Fabric count refers to the number of stitches (or holes) per inch of fabric. A 14-count Aida fabric has 14 stitches per inch, which is the most common for beginners. Higher counts (like 18 or 28) produce finer, smaller stitches, while lower counts (like 11) give a larger, bolder result.

A border of at least 3 inches (about 8 cm) on each side is recommended for most projects. This extra fabric gives you room to hoop the fabric securely while stitching, and leaves enough material for framing or finishing once the project is complete. For larger framed pieces, 4–6 inches per side gives more flexibility.

Aida is a structured, easy-to-count fabric where each square represents one stitch — ideal for beginners. Linen and evenweave fabrics have individual threads, and stitches are typically worked over 2 threads, resulting in a finer, more delicate appearance. The calculator lets you choose how many threads each stitch covers to handle both fabric types.

The number of strands depends on your fabric count. Higher-count fabrics (finer) use fewer strands for a neat finish, while lower-count fabrics use more. As a general rule: 14-count uses 2 strands for cross stitch and 1 for backstitch; 11-count uses 3 strands; 18-count uses 1–2 strands. The calculator suggests the appropriate strand count based on your chosen fabric count.

Needle size should match your fabric count to pass cleanly through the holes without distorting the fabric. Common pairings: size 24 needle for 14-count, size 26 for 18-count, size 22 for 11-count. Using the wrong size can cause fraying or drag threads out of place.

Divide the number of stitches in each direction by your fabric count. For example, a 140-stitch wide design on 14-count Aida gives a stitched width of 10 inches (140 ÷ 14). For linen stitched over 2 threads, divide by half the thread count. The total fabric you need adds the border allowance on both sides of each dimension.

Yes — select '2 Threads (Linen/Evenweave)' in the 'Each Stitch Covers' field. The calculator will adjust the stitched area calculation accordingly, since each cross stitch spans 2 threads rather than 1 hole as with Aida.

Multiply the design size in inches by the fabric count to get the stitch count. For example, a 10" × 8" design on 14-count Aida requires 140 × 112 stitches. Enter those stitch values into the calculator to get your total fabric size including the border.