# Cross-Stitch Calculator

URL: https://speedycalculator.com/calculators/everyday-life/cross-stitch/
Last updated: 2026-10-25

> The cross-stitch calculator works out the finished size of a pattern on any Aida or evenweave fabric count, the size of fabric to cut with margins, and the recommended needle size and number of strands.

## Inputs

- Pattern width (stitches)
- Pattern height (stitches)
- Fabric count
- Each stitch covers
- Margin on each side (in, cm)

## Results

- Stitches per inch
- Finished width
- Finished height
- Fabric to cut – width
- Fabric to cut – height
- Needle size
- Strands for cross stitches

## Formula

```
Stitches per inch = fabric count ÷ threads per stitch
Finished size = stitches ÷ stitches per inch
Fabric size = finished size + 2 × margin
```

## Explanation

Fabric count is the number of squares (Aida) or threads (linen, evenweave) per inch. On linen you usually stitch over two threads, so 28-count linen gives 14 stitches per inch, the same as 14-count Aida. Leave at least 3 in (8 cm) of spare fabric on every side for framing.

### How to use the Cross-Stitch Calculator

- **Pattern width (stitches)**
- **Pattern height (stitches)**
- **Fabric count**
- **Each stitch covers**
- **Margin on each side**

Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.

### How it works

Enter the pattern width and height in stitches, the fabric count, how many threads each stitch covers and the margin you want.

### Tips

- Measure over thin clothing with a soft tape held snug but not tight, and keep the tape level all the way round.
- Take each measurement twice; if you are between sizes, the larger size is usually the safer choice.
- Size charts vary by brand and country – check the maker's own chart when it is available.
- For sewing projects, pre-wash fabric before cutting and buy 10% extra for shrinkage, pattern matching and mistakes.

### Common mistakes to avoid

- Mixing inches and centimetres between the tape and the size chart.
- Forgetting seam and hem allowances when cutting fabric.
- Measuring an old, stretched garment instead of your body.

### Inputs explained

FieldWhat to enterPattern width (stitches)A numberPattern height (stitches)A numberFabric countChoose one: 11 count, 14 count, 16 count, 18 count …Each stitch coversChoose one: 1 thread (Aida), 2 threads (linen / evenweave)Margin on each sideUnits: in, cm

### What each result means

- **Stitches per inch** = [Fabric count]÷[Each stitch covers]
- **Finished width** = [Pattern width (stitches)]÷[Stitches per inch]×0.0254
- **Finished height** = [Pattern height (stitches)]÷[Stitches per inch]×0.0254
- **Fabric to cut – width** = [Finished width] + 2×[Margin on each side]
- **Fabric to cut – height** = [Finished height] + 2×[Margin on each side]

### Example values

How the main result changes when **Pattern width** changes and everything else stays at the example values above:

Pattern width (stitches)Finished width (in)755.36112.58.0415010.71187.513.3922516.0730021.43

## Worked example

Inputs — Pattern width (stitches): 150; Pattern height (stitches): 100; Fabric count: 14 count; Each stitch covers: 1 thread (Aida); Margin on each side: 3 in.

Results — Stitches per inch = 14; **Finished width = 10.71 in**; Finished height = 7.14 in; Fabric to cut – width = 16.7 in; Fabric to cut – height = 13.1 in; Needle size = Tapestry 24; Strands for cross stitches = 2 strands.

## FAQ

**How big will my cross-stitch be?**
Divide the stitch count by stitches per inch: 150 stitches on 14-count Aida is 10.7 in.

**What does stitching "over two" mean?**
Each cross covers two threads of linen, halving the stitches per inch (28-count over 2 = 14 per inch).

**How many strands should I use?**
Usually 2 strands on 14-count Aida, 3 on 11-count and 1 on 18-count or finer.

**What formula does the Cross-Stitch Calculator use?**
Stitches per inch = fabric count ÷ threads per stitch.