What fabric count means
Aida fabric is described by its count, the number of squares in one inch. An 11 count piece has 11 stitches per inch, and an 18 count piece has 18. A higher count means smaller stitches, so the same pattern comes out smaller and more detailed.
The most common counts for beginners are 11 and 14. Counts of 16 and 18 are finer and harder on the eyes.
The size formula
To find the finished size in inches, divide the number of stitches by the fabric count. Do this for width and height. The result is the size of the stitched area only, not the fabric you need to buy.
- Width in inches = stitches wide ÷ count.
- Height in inches = stitches high ÷ count.
Worked example
Take a design that is 100 stitches wide and 80 stitches high. On 14 count Aida, that is 100 ÷ 14 ≈ 7.1 inches wide and 80 ÷ 14 ≈ 5.7 inches high. On 11 count, the same design is about 9.1 by 7.3 inches. On 18 count, it is about 5.6 by 4.4 inches.
This is why the same pixel grid can suit a card at one count and a wall frame at another.
Allow margin for framing
Add about 3 inches of fabric on every side of the stitched area. That gives you room to hold the hoop, finish the edges and mount the piece. For the 14 count example, a piece of fabric around 13 by 12 inches would be a sensible size.
How many strands of floss
Six-strand embroidery floss is split before stitching. Common starting points are three strands on 11 count, two strands on 14 and 16 count, and one or two strands on 18 count. Use fewer strands if the holes feel crowded, and more if the fabric shows through.
How much floss a skein covers depends on your tension, the count and the stitch type, so treat any figure as a rough estimate. Many people buy an extra skein of the main colors to be safe. Counting the stitches per color in the materials list helps you judge how much each color needs.
Have a correction or a suggestion? Tell the studio.