What does fabric count mean?
For Aida worked with one cross per square, the count is the number of stitches per inch. A higher count puts the same number of stitches into a smaller space. It changes the finished size, not the number of squares in your chart.
These calculations assume one cross per Aida square. Linen or evenweave worked over two fabric threads needs a different effective stitch count; do not apply the fabric label directly without checking how the pattern is worked.
Calculate the stitched area
Divide the chart width in stitches by the stitches per inch. Repeat for the height. Multiply inches by 2.54 to convert to centimetres.
For example, a 140 × 140-stitch design measures 10 × 10 inches on 14-count Aida, 8.75 × 8.75 inches on 16-count, or about 7.78 × 7.78 inches on 18-count. The chart is identical in all three cases. Only its physical scale changes.
| Aida count | 140-stitch width | Width in centimetres |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | 10 in | 25.4 cm |
| 16 | 8.75 in | 22.23 cm |
| 18 | 7.78 in | 19.76 cm |
Leave room for finishing
The stitched area is not the fabric cut size. Leave additional fabric on every side for your hoop or frame, handling and the finishing method you plan to use. Check the margin needed by your framer or chosen mounting method before cutting.
If you choose a three-inch margin on each side of a ten-inch design, the fabric needs to be sixteen inches across. That is an example of the calculation, not a universal margin recommendation.
Choose comfort as well as size
Smaller stitches can make a compact piece, but smaller holes may be less comfortable to see and work with. Try a sample on the fabric you intend to use before committing to a large chart.
Keep the stitch dimensions and fabric choice together in your project notes. When reviewing FlossFrame material guidance, confirm that the dimensions match the fabric you actually plan to stitch on.
Further reading: DMC: choosing fabric for cross stitch.
Illustrations show example projects. AI-generated previews may differ from the final stitched result.