Cross Stitch Fabric Calculator
Enter your pattern's stitch count, fabric type, and allowance — get the exact fabric size you need in seconds. Works for Aida and evenweave in inches and centimeters.
Cross Stitch Fabric Calculator
Pattern Size
Fabric Settings
Fabric Allowance Per Side
Your Results
Getting started
How to Use This Calculator
Five quick steps and you'll have the exact fabric measurement you need — no math required.
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Find your pattern's stitch count
Look at the top of your cross stitch chart or in the pattern materials list. The stitch count is written as width × height — for example "150W × 200H". Each square on the grid equals one stitch.
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Choose your fabric count
Check the label on your fabric. The count tells you how many holes or threads fit in one inch. For beginners, 14-count Aida is the ideal starting point — widely available, easy to see, and perfect for most patterns.
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Select Over 1 or Over 2
Using Aida fabric? Choose Over 1. Using evenweave or linen? Choose Over 2. Each stitch spans two threads, which changes the finished size. If you're unsure, your pattern will say which to use.
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Set your allowance
Extra fabric around the edge for holding in a hoop and finishing afterwards. We recommend 2–3 inches per side for most projects. For large framed pieces, 3–4 inches gives more flexibility.
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Read your results
The calculator instantly shows your stitched design size and the minimum fabric piece to cut — in inches and centimeters. That's the piece to buy. Then start stitching!
Understanding your fabric
Fabric Count Explained
Fabric count is the number of stitches (or threads) per inch. Higher count = smaller, finer stitches. Lower count = larger, bolder stitches that are easier to see.
11-Count Aida
11 stitches per inch. The largest, easiest option — great for children and absolute beginners. Designs come out noticeably larger at this count.
14-Count Aida
14 stitches per inch. The most popular choice. A perfect balance between detail and ease — suitable for all skill levels.
18-Count Aida
18 stitches per inch. Finer stitches and more detail in a smaller space. Better suited to stitchers with some experience.
28-Count Evenweave
28 threads per inch. Stitched over 2 threads, giving the same density as 14-count Aida. Softer drape and a more elegant appearance.
| Fabric & Count | Stitch Over | Stitches / inch | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 ct Aida | Over 1 | 11 | Beginners, bold designs, kids |
| 14 ct Aida | Over 1 | 14 | Most projects — all skill levels |
| 16 ct Aida | Over 1 | 16 | Moderate detail |
| 18 ct Aida | Over 1 | 18 | Fine detail, experienced stitchers |
| 28 ct Evenweave | Over 2 | 14 | Soft fabric feel, same size as 14 ct |
| 32 ct Evenweave | Over 2 | 16 | Elegant, fine finish |
| 36 ct Linen | Over 2 | 18 | Very fine, detailed work |
| 40 ct Linen | Over 2 | 20 | Extra fine, miniature work |
Stitch method
Over 1 vs Over 2: What's the Difference?
This setting changes how many fabric threads each stitch covers — and therefore the finished size of your design. Getting this right is the most common source of sizing surprises.
One stitch = one thread square
Each cross stitch covers exactly one hole (or thread square) of the fabric. This is the standard method for Aida fabric.
- Fabric count equals stitches per inch directly
- 14-count Aida over 1 = 14 stitches per inch
- Easiest method — ideal for beginners
- Gives a clear, crisp grid structure
One stitch = two threads wide
Each cross stitch spans 2 threads in each direction. This is the standard method for evenweave and linen.
- Effective stitch density = fabric count ÷ 2
- 28-count evenweave over 2 = 14 stitches per inch
- Slightly more complex to work with
- Gives a softer, more elegant, heirloom look
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about calculating cross stitch fabric size.
A cross stitch fabric calculator is a free online tool that tells you exactly what size piece of fabric to buy or cut for your project. You enter your pattern's stitch count (width × height), your fabric count, whether you're stitching over 1 or over 2, and how much fabric allowance you'd like around the edges. The calculator instantly shows you the finished design size and recommended fabric cut size in inches and centimeters — no math required.
Beginners should start with 14-count Aida. It's the most popular count for good reason: the holes are easy to see, the stitches are a comfortable size, and it's available in every craft store. Stitch it over 1 and you'll have 14 stitches per inch.
If you have trouble seeing fine details, try 11-count Aida — it has even larger holes. Avoid anything finer than 18-count until you're comfortable with the technique.
The stitch count is usually printed at the top of your pattern chart, in the materials section, or on the packaging. It's written as width × height — for example "150W × 200H stitches".
For digital patterns, look in the pattern description or info panel. If you're working from a counted chart and can't find it stated anywhere, count the grid squares yourself — each grid square represents one stitch.
For most projects, 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) per side is the standard recommendation. This gives you enough fabric to fit comfortably in an embroidery hoop while stitching, and enough leftover to mount, frame, or finish the piece afterwards.
For large framed or stretched pieces, consider 3–4 inches per side. For small ornaments or cards, 1.5–2 inches is usually enough. When in doubt, err on the generous side — you can always trim.
When stitched over 2, yes — your design will come out the same size. 28-count evenweave has 28 threads per inch; stitching over 2 threads means 14 stitches fit in each inch, matching 14-count Aida exactly.
The difference is in the fabric itself. Aida has a stiff, woven grid structure — easy to count and hold. Evenweave is softer and more flexible, with an heirloom quality many experienced stitchers prefer.
Yes. This calculator works for all counted thread fabrics: Aida, evenweave, linen, Jobelan, Lugana, and any other fabric with a stated count. Use the "Custom count" option in the dropdown for unusual counts.
Aida is always over 1. Evenweave, linen, and Jobelan are almost always over 2 unless the pattern specifically says otherwise.
Work backwards using the formula: fabric count = stitch count ÷ target size in inches. For example, if your pattern is 140 stitches wide and you want it 10 inches wide, you need 14-count fabric (140 ÷ 10 = 14).
If stitching over 2: fabric count = (stitch count × 2) ÷ target size. Once you know which count to use, enter it in this calculator to get your final fabric cut size.