The Cross Stitch Cheat Sheet: Aida Count, Strands & Needle Sizes (Free Printable)
Quick answer: match your strands and needle to your fabric count. On 11ct use 3 strands (1–2 for backstitch) with a size 22 needle; on the popular 14ct use 2 strands (1 for backstitch) with a size 24 needle; on 16ct use 2 strands (size 26); on 18ct use 1 strand (size 28). Keep your working thread to 45–50 cm, and remember: stitches ÷ count = finished size in inches. Everything you need is in the tables below.
How to use this cheat sheet
This is your one-page, no-fuss reference — the page to keep open (or print) while you stitch. Instead of hunting through your pattern notes every time, glance here for the three settings that matter most: how many strands to use, which needle fits your fabric, and how big your design will finish. Each section links to a full guide if you want the deeper story, but you can start stitching from this page alone.
Print or bookmark this page and pin it near your hoop — it’s built to live on your project table, not just your screen.
Strands per fabric count
The finer your fabric (the higher the count), the fewer strands of floss you need to cover it cleanly. Use full coverage for your main stitches and drop down a strand or two for crisp backstitch outlines.
| Fabric count | Strands (cross stitch) | Strands (backstitch) |
|---|---|---|
| 11 ct Aida | 3 | 1–2 |
| 14 ct Aida | 2 | 1 |
| 16 ct Aida | 2 | 1 |
| 18 ct Aida | 1 | 1 |
| 22–28 ct evenweave / linen | 1–2 (worked over 2 threads) | 1 |
Want the full breakdown, including how to adjust for texture and coverage? Read our guide on how many strands of floss to use in cross stitch.
Tapestry needle size
Cross stitch uses a blunt tapestry needle that slips between the fabric holes without splitting threads. The higher the number, the thinner the needle — so finer fabrics take a higher-numbered needle.
| Fabric count | Tapestry needle size |
|---|---|
| 6–9 ct | 20 |
| 10–11 ct | 22 |
| 12–14 ct | 24 |
| 16 ct | 26 |
| 18–22 ct | 28 |
Remember: a higher number means a thinner needle. For matching by project and troubleshooting a needle that feels too tight or too loose, see our tapestry needle size guide for Aida.
What Aida count actually means
“Count” is simply the number of stitches per inch of fabric. A lower count has bigger holes and bigger stitches; a higher count is finer and more detailed.
- 11 ct — larger stitches and easy-to-see holes; the most beginner-friendly choice.
- 14 ct — the most widely used count and the standard for most patterns and kits.
- 16 ct & 18 ct — finer weave for more detail and a smaller finished piece.
Not sure which count suits your eyes and your pattern? Our Aida cloth count guide walks through every option with side-by-side examples.
Working thread length
Cut your floss to 45–50 cm (about 18–20 inches). Longer than that and the thread tends to tangle, fray, and lose its sheen as it passes through the fabric again and again.
Hoop size
Choose a hoop slightly larger than the section of the design you’re working on, so your stitches sit comfortably inside the frame without being crushed. A 6 inch hoop is a versatile all-rounder and a great first choice. For bigger projects and frame types, see the embroidery hoop size guide.
Finished size math
To find how big your design will be, divide the stitch count by the fabric count:
stitches ÷ count = inches
For example, a design that is 140 stitches wide on 14 ct fabric finishes at 140 ÷ 14 = 10 inches. Do the same for the height, then add a few extra centimetres of fabric all around for framing or finishing.
Colour and floss reference
Following a chart with DMC numbers? Keep our DMC colour chart guide handy so you can match symbols to shades without second-guessing.
New to cross stitch?
If you’re just starting out, pair this cheat sheet with our complete beginner’s guide to cross stitch, and browse our beginner cross stitch kits that come with everything pre-matched. Feeling adventurous? You can even turn your own photo into a cross stitch pattern and stitch it as a custom photo cross stitch kit.
Frequently asked questions
How many strands do I use for 14 count Aida?
Use 2 strands for the cross stitches and 1 strand for backstitch outlines. This gives full, even coverage on 14ct without looking bulky.
What needle size is best for cross stitch?
Match the needle to your fabric: size 24 for 12–14ct, size 26 for 16ct, and size 28 for 18–22ct. Always use a blunt tapestry needle, and remember a higher number means a thinner needle.
What does Aida count mean?
Count is the number of stitches per inch. Lower counts like 11ct have bigger, easier stitches; 14ct is the most common; and 16ct or 18ct give finer detail on a smaller finished piece.
How long should my working thread be?
Cut your floss to about 45–50 cm (18–20 inches). Longer threads tangle and wear out before you finish using them.
How do I calculate the finished size of my design?
Divide the stitch count by the fabric count to get inches. For example, 140 stitches on 14ct fabric finishes at 10 inches (140 ÷ 14 = 10).