Understanding Fabric Count and Floss Strands in Cross Stitch
Confused about fabric count or how many strands of floss to use? Whether you're aiming for fine detail or bold texture, this guide breaks it all down with tips for every stitcher.
When you start a cross stitch project, two small details make a big difference to how it turns out: the fabric count and how many strands of floss you use. Get them right and your stitches will be full, smooth and even. Here's a simple guide.
What Is Fabric Count?
Fabric count is the number of stitches you can make per inch of fabric. On Aida, that's the number of squares per inch; on evenweave and linen, it's the number of threads per inch. Common Aida counts are 11, 14, 16 and 18.
The higher the number, the smaller your stitches and the more detailed (and smaller) the finished design. 14-count gives larger, easy-to-see stitches; 18-count gives finer detail.
Evenweave and Linen: "Over Two"
Evenweave and linen have much higher counts, such as 28 or 32, because you usually stitch over two threads instead of one. That means 28-count evenweave stitched over two gives the same size stitch as 14-count Aida. Compare fabrics in Aida vs evenweave and linen.
Working Out Your Finished Size
Divide the number of stitches in your design by the fabric count. For example, a design 140 stitches wide on 14-count is 10 inches wide; on 18-count it's about 7.8 inches. Then add at least 3 inches on every side for framing.
How Many Strands of Floss Should You Use?
Embroidery floss is made of six strands twisted together. You separate them and use only a few, depending on your fabric. Here's a general guide for full cross stitches:
- 11-count Aida: 3 strands
- 14-count Aida: 2 strands
- 16-count Aida: 2 strands
- 18-count Aida: 2 strands for full coverage, or 1 for a lighter look
- 28-count evenweave (over two): 2 strands
- Over one on high counts (e.g. 22+ or 28 over one): 1 strand
1 Strand: Fine Detail
A single strand creates delicate, subtle stitches. It's used for backstitching, half stitches, soft shading and miniature work on very fine fabrics. It needs a steady hand and a little patience.
2 Strands: The Standard Choice
Two strands are the go-to for most designs on 14- to 18-count. They give a great balance of coverage and detail, and they suit most patterns.
3+ Strands: Bold and Textured
Three or more strands make stitches richer and more textured. That's great on 11-count or for special accents, but too bulky for higher counts, where stitches look crowded.
Special Note: Variegated Floss
Variegated floss changes colour along its length, creating a blended effect. Two strands usually work best, and completing each cross before moving on (rather than working in rows) helps show off the colour changes.
How to Separate Strands
Cut a length of about 18 inches. Pinch the top, then pull one strand straight up and out while the rest bunch below. Repeat for each strand you need, then lay them back together. Pulling strands out one at a time helps them lie flat and cover better, and it prevents tangles. More tips in preventing twists and knots.
Final Tips
- Always check your chart: many designers specify the strands to use.
- Try a small test patch if you're unsure about coverage.
- Match your needle to your fabric too. See choosing the best needles.
- Your personal taste counts: there's no single right answer, so experiment until you love the look.
Want the whole picture on supplies? Read Cross Stitch Essentials: Choosing Fabric, Needles and Floss. Happy stitching! 🧵✨
Prefer not to work it all out yourself? Our kits come with the right fabric and threads already matched.
