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.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Pattern width (stitches) | A number |
| Pattern height (stitches) | A number |
| Fabric count | Choose one: 11 count, 14 count, 16 count, 18 count … |
| Each stitch covers | Choose one: 1 thread (Aida), 2 threads (linen / evenweave) |
| Margin on each side | Units: 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) |
|---|---|
| 75 | 5.36 |
| 112.5 | 8.04 |
| 150 | 10.71 |
| 187.5 | 13.39 |
| 225 | 16.07 |
| 300 | 21.43 |
Formula
Stitches per inch = fabric count ÷ threads per stitch
Finished size = stitches ÷ stitches per inch
Fabric size = finished size + 2 × margin
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.
Frequently asked questions
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.