Cross stitch fabric is primarily measured by its count, which tells you how many stitches you can make per inch.
Understanding Fabric Count
The key to measuring cross stitch fabric lies in its count. This number represents the density of the fabric, specifically the number of squares per inch. The higher the count, the smaller the squares and thus the smaller your stitches will be.
According to standard practice, the number of squares per inch determines the count of the fabric. For instance, a 14-count Aida fabric features 14 squares per inch. This means that when you stitch on this fabric, you will achieve 14 stitches per inch. In this context, the terms "squares per inch" and "stitches per inch" are often used interchangeably.
What the Count Means for Your Project
The fabric count directly impacts the size of your finished cross stitch piece.
- Lower Count (e.g., 10-count, 11-count): Larger squares, resulting in bigger stitches and a larger finished project. Easier for beginners or those with vision challenges.
- Higher Count (e.g., 18-count, 28-count, 32-count): Smaller squares, resulting in smaller, finer stitches and a smaller finished project. Often used for more detailed designs.
Common Cross Stitch Fabric Counts
Here are some commonly used fabric counts and what they mean:
| Fabric Type (Example) | Count | Squares/Stitches per Inch | Resulting Stitch Size | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aida, Linen, Evenweave | 11 | 11 | Larger | Beginners, Quick Projects |
| Aida | 14 | 14 | Standard | Most Patterns |
| Aida | 16 | 16 | Slightly Smaller | Moderate Detail |
| Aida, Evenweave | 18 | 18 | Smaller | Detailed Projects |
| Evenweave, Linen | 28 | 28 (usually stitched over 2 threads for 14 stitches/inch) | Very Small (or Standard when over 2) | Fine Detail |
| Evenweave, Linen | 32 | 32 (usually stitched over 2 threads for 16 stitches/inch) | Very Small (or Small when over 2) | Very Fine Detail |
Note: Evenweave and linen fabrics are typically stitched over two threads, meaning a 28-count fabric results in 14 stitches per inch, and a 32-count results in 16 stitches per inch.
How Fabric Count is Determined
The count is determined during the manufacturing process by how tightly the threads are woven together. A denser weave results in more squares (and potential stitches) per inch, leading to a higher count.
Choosing the right fabric count is crucial for achieving the desired look and size of your cross stitch masterpiece.
