Aida, Evenweave and Fabric Count
How cross-stitch fabric works, what count means, and how count changes the finished size.
Aida cloth
Aida is woven in small blocks so that it forms clear squares with a visible hole at each corner. One cross-stitch covers one square. It is stiff, easy to count and the right choice for a first project.
Evenweave and linen
Evenweave has single threads spaced evenly in both directions, with no blocks. You normally stitch over two threads, so 28-count evenweave gives the same stitch size as 14-count Aida. It looks finer and makes fractional stitches easier, because there is a hole in the middle of each stitch. It is harder to count. Leave it for your second or third project.
Count
Count is the number of squares, and so stitches, per inch. A higher count means smaller stitches and a smaller finished design.
| Fabric | Stitches per inch | Strands of floss | Needle size | A 28-stitch-wide design measures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11-count Aida | 11 | 3 | 22 | 2.5 in (6.5 cm) |
| 14-count Aida | 14 | 2 | 24 | 2 in (5 cm) |
| 16-count Aida | 16 | 2 | 26 | 1.75 in (4.4 cm) |
| 18-count Aida | 18 | 1 or 2 | 26 or 28 | 1.6 in (4 cm) |
| 28-count evenweave, over two | 14 | 2 | 24 or 26 | 2 in (5 cm) |
To work out the finished size, divide the stitch count by the fabric count. Then add at least 2 in (5 cm) of spare fabric on every side for handling and framing.
Preparing the fabric
- Cut along a row of holes so the edge is straight.
- Stop fraying with masking tape folded over the edges, a zigzag stitch, or a line of whipstitch.
- Do not pre-wash Aida. Washing removes the stiffening that makes it easy to hold.