Boneyard Tools

Cross Stitch Fabric Calculator

Work out how big your stitched design will be and how much fabric to cut. Enter the stitch count, the fabric count, and the margin you want on each side.

How to size cross-stitch fabric

  1. Enter the design width and height in stitches.
  2. Set the fabric count and how many threads each stitch is worked over.
  3. Choose a margin per side, then read the fabric size and copy it.

Examples

140 by 140 stitch design on 14-count with a 3 inch margin

140 x 140 stitches, 14-count, margin 3 in, over 1
Stitched 10 x 10 in, fabric 16 x 16 in

Frequently asked questions

How do I work out cross-stitch fabric size?

Divide the design stitches by the fabric count to get the stitched size in inches, then add a margin to every side. A 140 stitch design on 14-count is 10 inches before margins.

What does fabric count mean?

Count is the number of threads or holes per inch. On Aida a higher count makes smaller stitches, so the same design stitched on 18-count is smaller than on 14-count.

What is stitching over two?

On evenweave and linen many stitchers work each stitch over two threads. That halves the effective count, so 28-count over two stitches at the same size as 14-count Aida.

How big a margin should I leave?

Three inches per side is typical to allow for framing and a hoop. Add more for larger frames or if you plan to lace the piece over a mounting board.

Does it round up to a fabric size I can buy?

No. It gives the exact cut size including margins. Round up to the next size your shop sells, and remember precut fat quarters and rolls come in fixed dimensions.

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