This free cross stitch fabric calculator turns a pattern’s stitch count into a finished size and a fabric cutting size. Enter your pattern’s stitch count, choose the fabric and count, and set how much margin you want for framing. The calculator gives the finished design size and the exact piece of fabric to cut, and compares the same design on other fabric counts.
How to use the Cross Stitch Fabric Calculator
- Enter the pattern’s stitch count across and down.
- Choose Aida, evenweave or linen and the fabric count.
- Add the margin you want around the design for framing or finishing.
- Press Calculate to see the finished size and the fabric to cut.
If you plan to frame the piece, add extra margin in the cross stitch fabric calculator so there is room to lace or staple. For the history of the stitch and common fabrics, see Wikipedia’s cross-stitch article.
Cross stitch fabric formula
Example
A pattern 140 × 100 stitches on 14-count Aida is 10 × 7.14 inches. With a 3″ margin on each side you need 16 × 13.14 inches (about 41 × 33 cm) of fabric.
Choosing a fabric count
- 11–14 count Aida: easiest to see and count; best for beginners and kids.
- 16–18 count Aida: finer detail and a smaller finished piece; use 2 strands (16) or 1–2 strands (18) of floss.
- 28–32 count evenweave or linen over 2: the same size as 14–16 Aida, with a softer, more traditional look.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate the size of a cross stitch pattern?
Divide the number of stitches by the fabric count. For example, 100 stitches on 14-count Aida is 100 ÷ 14 = 7.14 inches.
How much extra fabric should I leave around a cross stitch?
At least 3 inches (7.5 cm) on every side for framing, or 2 inches for ornaments and small finishes.
Is 28-count evenweave the same size as 14-count Aida?
Yes, when you stitch over 2 threads. 28-count evenweave over two gives 14 stitches per inch, the same finished size as 14-count Aida.
How many strands of floss should I use?
Typically 2–3 strands on 11-count, 2 strands on 14–16-count and 28-count over two, and 1–2 strands on 18-count and finer.
What is the cross stitch size formula?
Finished size (in) = stitches ÷ fabric count. A 140 × 100 stitch design on 14-count Aida is 10 × 7.1 in. With a 3 in margin on each side, cut about 16 × 13.1 in of fabric.
How does Aida count conversion work for evenweave?
Stitching over two threads halves the count, so 28-count evenweave over two works like 14-count Aida, and 32-count linen over two works like 16-count Aida.
What Aida count is best for beginners?
14-count Aida is the usual starting point: the holes are easy to see and each stitch is large enough to count without magnification. 16- and 18-count give finer detail but smaller finished designs.
Related tools
Results are estimates for general information. Check critical decisions with a qualified professional.