What this calculator does
A cross-stitch chart tells you how many stitches wide and high the design is, but not how big it will be. That depends on the fabric: the same chart is about 11 inches wide on 11-count Aida and under 7 inches on 18-count. This calculator converts stitches to inches for the fabric you pick, then adds a margin on every side so you know what size to cut or buy.
How to use it
- Enter the stitch count from your chart.
- Pick the fabric. Aida is stitched over one block; evenweave and linen are usually stitched over two threads.
- Set the margin, then cut or buy fabric at least the size in the result.
The math
stitches per inch = fabric count ÷ threads per stitch
design size = stitches ÷ stitches per inch
fabric = design size + 2 × margin
A 120 × 90 stitch design on 14-count Aida is 8.57 × 6.43 inches. With 3 inches of margin on every side, cut the fabric at least 14 5/8 × 12 3/8 inches.
Choosing a fabric count
- 11 and 14-count Aida: big, easy-to-see holes. Good for beginners and kids.
- 16 and 18-count Aida: a finer, more detailed look, harder on the eyes.
- 25 to 36-count evenweave and linen: stitched over two for a softer, more traditional finish, and the only option for fractional stitches that look smooth.
Want to see your design on every fabric at once? Use the count converter.
Stop fraying before you start. Zigzag, serge or tape the edges of your fabric before you stitch. Hours in a hoop will otherwise unravel your margin.
Questions people ask
Where do I find the stitch count?
Most charts print it near the title or key, for example "Stitch count: 120w × 90h". If not, count the squares across the widest and tallest stitched points of the chart.
What does stitching over two mean?
On evenweave and linen each cross covers two threads in each direction. That halves the number of stitches per inch, so 28-count stitched over two gives 14 stitches per inch, the same size as 14-count Aida.
How much margin should I leave?
Three inches on every side is the usual advice for framing. It gives room for a hoop or scroll frame while stitching and for lacing or mounting afterwards. Use 2 inches for an ornament or small finish, 4 or more for large frames.
Why is my finished piece a different size?
Fabric counts are nominal and some evenweaves have slightly different counts across and down. Tension also plays a part. Allow a little extra margin for anything that has to fit an exact frame.