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Cross Stitch Calculator

Calculate fabric size and thread needed for your cross stitch project

Design Specifications

Recommended: 3 inches for framing

Project Requirements

Fabric Size Needed
13.1" × 13.1"
Design: 7.1" × 7.1"
Total Stitches
10,000
100 × 100 stitches
Thread Per Color
7 skeins
50.8m needed
Total Skeins Needed
70
For 10 colors
Estimated Stitching Time
67 hours
Approximately 16.7 days at 4 hours/day

Project Breakdown

Fabric Width13.1
Fabric Height13.1
Skeins per Color7.0
Total Skeins70.0

Fabric Count Reference

CountStitches per InchTypical UseRecommended Strands
11 count11Large, bold designs3 strands
14 count14Most popular, beginner-friendly2-3 strands
16 count16Moderate detail2 strands
18 count18Fine detail work1-2 strands
22 count22Very fine detail1 strand
28 count28 (over 2)Heirloom, intricate work1-2 strands

Cross Stitch Tips

  • •Fabric margin: Always add 3-4 inches on all sides for framing and handling. This prevents running out of fabric.
  • •Thread length: Cut embroidery floss to about 18 inches. Longer threads tangle and wear out from friction.
  • •Skein coverage: One skein covers approximately 1,600 stitches with 2 strands. Buy extra for popular colors.
  • •Fabric choice: 14-count Aida is the most popular for beginners. Linen requires stitching over two threads.
  • •Time estimates: Beginners: 100 stitches/hour. Intermediate: 150/hour. Advanced: 200+/hour.
  • •Thread brands: DMC and Anchor are standard. DMC skeins contain 8.7 yards (8 meters) of six-strand floss.

Example Calculations

1100x100 stitch design on 14-count Aida

Inputs

Design100x100 stitches
Fabric14-count Aida
Colors15
Strands2

Result

Fabric Needed13.1" x 13.1"

A 100x100 stitch design on 14-count fabric produces a 7.1"x7.1" design. Adding 3 inches of margin on each side requires 13.1"x13.1" of fabric. With 10,000 total stitches divided among 15 colors and using 2 strands, each color needs approximately 33.9 meters, requiring 5 skeins per color for a total of 75 skeins. Estimated time: 67 hours at 150 stitches/hour.

2200x150 stitch design on 18-count Aida

Inputs

Design200x150 stitches
Fabric18-count Aida
Colors25
Strands2

Result

Fabric Needed17.1" x 14.3"

On 18-count fabric, a 200x150 design measures 11.1"x8.3". Adding 3 inches of margin on each side requires 17.1"x14.3" fabric. The 30,000 stitches divided among 25 colors with 2 strands requires approximately 61.0 meters per color (8 skeins each), totaling 200 skeins. Estimated time: 200 hours.

380x80 stitch sampler on 28-count linen

Inputs

Design80x80 stitches
Fabric28-count linen
Colors10
Strands2

Result

Fabric Needed8.9" x 8.9"

An 80x80 design on 28-count fabric measures 2.9"x2.9". Adding 3 inches of margin on each side requires 8.9"x8.9" fabric. The 6,400 stitches across 10 colors with 2 strands need approximately 32.5 meters per color, requiring 5 skeins per color for a total of 50 skeins. Estimated time: 43 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

How do I calculate fabric size for cross stitch?

Divide your design dimensions (in stitches) by the fabric count to get the design size in inches. Then add 3-4 inches on all sides as margin for framing. For example, a 140x140 stitch design on 14-count fabric is 10"x10", requiring approximately 16"x16" of fabric with margins.

Q

How much thread does one DMC skein cover?

One DMC skein contains 8 meters (8.7 yards) of six-strand embroidery floss. With 2 strands, one skein covers approximately 1,600 cross stitches. Coverage varies based on fabric count and stitching tension.

Q

What is the most common cross stitch fabric count?

14-count Aida is the most popular fabric for cross stitch, especially for beginners. It has 14 stitches per inch, providing a good balance between detail and ease of stitching. The holes are clearly visible, making it easy to count.

Q

How many strands should I use for cross stitch?

The standard is 2 strands for 14-count fabric. Use 3 strands for 11-count (larger holes), 2 strands for 14-16 count, and 1-2 strands for 18-count or higher. The goal is full coverage without overcrowding the fabric.

Q

How long does a cross stitch project take?

Stitching time depends on experience and design complexity. Beginners average 100 stitches per hour, intermediate stitchers 150 per hour, and advanced 200+ per hour. A 10,000-stitch project takes approximately 65-100 hours.

Q

What is the difference between Aida and linen fabric?

Aida is a cotton fabric with clearly visible square holes, ideal for beginners. Linen is an even-weave fabric requiring stitching over two threads, resulting in finer detail. A 28-count linen stitched over 2 equals 14-count Aida in appearance.

Cross Stitch Resources

  • Yarn Calculator
  • Fabric Yardage Calculator
  • Embroidery Thread Calculator
  • Bead Calculator

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Last Updated: Feb 12, 2026

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.

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