Cross Stitch Calculator
Cross Stitch Calculator
Instructions
- Enter your design dimensions in stitches
- Select your fabric count (stitches per inch)
- Choose your stitch type
- Add border allowance for framing/finishing
- Click "Calculate" to see results
Tips:
- Common fabric counts: 14 (Aida), 16, 18, 28 (evenweave), 32 (linen)
- Add extra border for framing (typically 2-3 inches per side)
- For large designs, consider using 18+ count fabric to reduce size
Standard Fabric Counts
Calculate fabric size, thread length, and borders for any cross stitch project. Works with all fabric counts (Aida, linen, evenweave) and stitch types. Get instant visual diagrams!
Cross Stitch Calculator: Perfect Stitch Planning
What Is This?
A digital tool that helps you:
- Determine how much fabric you need
- Calculate thread requirements
- Plan border allowances
- Visualize your design on fabric
Key Formulas
- Fabric Size = (Stitches ÷ Fabric Count) + (Border × 2)
- Example: 100 stitches on 14ct fabric with 3” borders = (100/14)+6 ≈ 13.14”
- Thread Length = Total Stitches ÷ Stitches Per Yard
- (Approx. 1,800 stitches/yard for full cross)
- Design Size = Stitch Width/Height ÷ Fabric Count
Source: Standard embroidery calculations from “The Cross Stitcher’s Bible” by Jane Greenoff.
How to Use
- Enter your pattern’s stitch width and height
- Select your fabric count (stitches per inch)
- Choose stitch type (full/half/quarter/backstitch)
- Add border allowance for framing
- Click “Calculate” to see:
- Fabric dimensions needed
- Thread requirements
- Visual layout
Terminology Explained
- Fabric Count: Stitches per inch (higher numbers = smaller stitches)
- Border Allowance: Extra fabric for framing/finishing edges
- Waste Canvas: Temporary fabric for stitching on clothing
- Evenweave: Fabric with uniform threads (like linen)
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between 14ct and 16ct Aida?
A: 14ct has bigger holes (14 stitches per inch), 16ct is finer (16/in) - affects final size.
Q: How much border should I add?
A: 2-3 inches per side for framing, 1-2 inches for finishing edges.
Q: Why does thread length vary by stitch type?
A: Full crosses use more thread than half stitches or backstitches.
Pro Tips
✔️ Buy fabric 1-2 inches larger than calculated for safety
✔️ For large designs, use higher count fabric to reduce size
✔️ Dark fabrics may need 1-2 extra inches for easier framing
Limitations
⚠️ Doesn’t account for specialty stitches (French knots, etc.)
⚠️ Thread estimates assume standard 6-strand floss
⚠️ Very large designs may require fabric piecing
Note: Always wash hands before stitching to keep fabric clean!