What Is a Counted Cross Stitch Pattern? Complete Beginner's Guide

TL;DR: A counted cross stitch pattern is a printed (or PDF) chart on a grid where each square represents one cross stitch, and each symbol tells you which color thread to use. You "count" empty squares from a fixed reference point on the blank Aida fabric — the design isn't pre-printed on the cloth. It's the most popular cross stitch format worldwide because patterns are sharper, more detailed and far cheaper to print.

What is a counted cross stitch pattern, exactly?

A counted cross stitch pattern is a grid-based chart where:

• One square = one cross stitch on your Aida fabric.
• Each symbol (a heart, dot, star, letter, etc.) tells you which thread color to use, mapped in a color legend.
• The fabric stays blank. You start from the center (or a corner) and count squares as you stitch.

Compare this to a stamped or no-count kit, where the design is printed directly onto the Aida and you simply cover the printed shapes. With counted patterns, you're working from a separate chart and counting your way across an empty grid.

What does a counted cross stitch pattern look like?

A typical counted pattern contains:

1. The chart itself — a black-and-white or color grid showing every stitch as a symbol.
2. A color legend — a small table mapping each symbol to a DMC (or similar) thread number plus a written color name.
3. The finished size — dimensions in centimeters or inches at each common Aida count (11ct, 14ct, 16ct, 18ct).
4. Stitch count — width × height in stitches (e.g. 200×250).
5. Optional backstitch sheet — lines added on top of the cross stitches for outlines or text. Learn the backstitch technique here.

How do you actually "count" a pattern?

The basic workflow:

1. Find the center of both your fabric (fold in quarters) and your chart (usually marked with arrows on the edges).
2. Start stitching from the center outward, following the first color block.
3. Count squares from your last stitch to the next stitch of the same color, then move on to the next.
4. Work in color blocks or in rows — whichever keeps you happiest.
5. Tick off stitched areas on a printout or in a pattern app so you don't lose track. Here's how to organize a PDF pattern.

Counted vs stamped: which is better?

Honest comparison:

• Counted = sharper detail, wider design choice, cheaper PDFs, more focus required. Best for anyone who wants the full range of cross stitch art and is okay with concentration.
• Stamped (no-count) = easy on the eyes and brain, but limited designs, often blurry print and slightly more expensive per design. Best for total beginners, kids, or evenings where you don't want to think.

If you'd like the full keuzehulp, see our no-count cross stitch guide.

What you need to start a counted pattern

• Aida fabric — usually 14-count for a balanced first project, 11-count if you want bigger holes. Aida count explained.
• DMC embroidery floss — colors from the pattern legend.
• Tapestry needle — size 22–26 depending on Aida count.
• Embroidery hoop — optional but recommended.
• The pattern itself — printed or on a tablet.
• Good lighting — underrated but it changes the whole experience.

Or skip the shopping list and start with a complete kit from our beginners collection, which includes everything above except the hoop.

Where to find good counted patterns

Counted patterns come in three flavors:

• Complete kits with chart + fabric + threads + needle. The easiest path. Browse our ready-made designs.
• PDF-only patterns, downloaded instantly. You bring your own fabric and floss. See our PDF pattern collection.
• Custom photo patterns — your own photo turned into a counted chart. Browse custom photo cross stitch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is counted cross stitch hard for beginners?

It's not technically harder — the stitch is the same. It just requires more attention because you're counting from a blank grid. Start with a small (20×30 cm) pattern on 11- or 14-count Aida and you'll be fine.

What's the difference between counted and printed cross stitch?

"Printed" usually means stamped: the design is printed onto the fabric and you fill it in. Counted means the design is only on a separate chart — the fabric stays blank until you stitch.

Do counted cross stitch patterns come with thread?

If you buy a kit, yes — fabric, threads and needle are included. If you buy a PDF pattern, you typically only get the chart and a DMC color list to shop separately.

How do I read a cross stitch color legend?

Each symbol on the chart maps to a DMC (or equivalent) thread number, plus a written color name. We have a full walkthrough in our how to read a cross stitch pattern guide.

Can I make a counted pattern from my own photo?

Yes. A photo is digitally converted to a stitch grid with a limited DMC palette. Choose a sharp photo with a calm background and clear contrast. Browse our custom photo cross stitch for ready-to-stitch kits.

In summary

A counted cross stitch pattern is just a grid where every square = one cross stitch and every symbol = one thread color. The fabric starts blank; you count your way across. It's the standard format for serious cross stitch art — sharper than stamped, more affordable as PDF, and infinitely more varied in design. Pick a small pattern, gather your supplies, and you'll have your first counted piece on the wall sooner than you think.