While the question asks about measuring cross stitch thread, the provided information specifically details how to measure the count of your cross stitch fabric. Understanding your fabric count is a fundamental aspect of cross stitch, influencing the size of your stitched design and indirectly related to thread usage.
Understanding Cross Stitch Fabric Count
Cross stitch fabric count indicates how many stitches can be made in one linear inch of fabric. This count is determined by the number of threads or blocks present within that inch. The method described in the reference explains how to accurately measure this count:
- To check the count of a fabric, lay a ruler on the fabric and count the numbers of blocks or threads in 1in (2.5cm) – use a needle to help you follow the threads.
- If there are 14 blocks to 1in (2.5cm) then the fabric is 14-count.
- 28-count linen will have 28 threads to 1in (2.5cm).
Essentially, you are counting the potential stitch spaces across an inch.
Why Fabric Count is Important
Measuring fabric count helps you:
- Determine the final size of your finished cross stitch piece based on the pattern's stitch dimensions.
- Select the appropriate number of thread strands to use for good coverage on that specific fabric count.
- Choose a suitable needle size that will pass easily through the fabric holes without distorting them.
Practical Steps to Measure Fabric Count
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Gather your tools: You'll need your cross stitch fabric, a ruler (marked in inches or centimeters), and a needle or pin to help with counting.
- Place the ruler: Lay the ruler directly onto your fabric.
- Count within one inch: Focus on a one-inch (2.5 cm) section along the ruler.
- Count blocks or threads:
- For Aida fabric: Count the square "blocks" (which are groups of threads). Each block represents one stitch space.
- For Linen or Evenweave: Count the individual threads. Be mindful if you plan to stitch "over two threads," which is common for these fabrics, as this effectively halves the count for your stitch size (e.g., 28-count linen stitched over two threads behaves like 14-count).
- Use a needle: Use the tip of your needle or pin to keep track of which block or thread you are counting.
- Identify the count: The number of blocks or threads you count in one inch is the fabric's count. For example, if you count 14 blocks, it's 14-count fabric. If you count 28 threads, it's 28-count fabric.
Common Fabric Counts
Knowing common counts can also help identify your fabric. Here's a look at a few examples:
| Fabric Type & Count | Stitches per Inch | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 11-count Aida | 11 | Larger stitches, quicker to cover |
| 14-count Aida | 14 | Standard, very popular count |
| 16-count Aida | 16 | Slightly finer than 14-count |
| 18-count Aida | 18 | Finer details, smaller finished projects |
| 28-count Linen/Evenweave | 28 (often stitched over 2 threads for 14-count effect) | Finer fabrics for detailed work or samplers |
Conclusion:
Based on the provided reference, measuring involves counting the number of thread bundles or individual threads within a one-inch span on the fabric itself. This process determines the fabric's count, which is crucial for proper project planning in cross stitch. While the question asks about thread measurement, the key information provided focuses on this fabric count measurement technique.
