Aida or linen: which embroidery fabric is right for your cross-stitch?
You've stitched your first embroidery designs on Aida – now you hear the terms "linen" or "evenweave" everywhere. Are these fabrics really "better"? Should you switch?
The honest answer: Aida and linen are both great, for different stitchers. In this comparison, we'll show you exactly what the differences are – and when each fabric makes sense.
What is Aida fabric?
Aida is a fabric specifically developed for cross-stitch. It has a clear honeycomb structure with visible holes – each hole is the corner of a cross-stitch. Beginner-friendly because you don't have to count where the holes are.
Classic counts: 11ct, 14ct, 16ct, 18ct. More on this in our Aida count guide.
What is linen?
Linen is a natural fabric made from flax fibers. It has no visible "holes" – you have to count the threads and stitch between them. This gives a much finer look.
Classic counts: 28, 32, 36, 40 "threads per inch." Since you stitch over 2 threads, 28-count linen corresponds to 14-count Aida – so the stitch size is similar.
What is Evenweave?
Evenweave is basically the middle ground: finer than Aida, clearer than linen. It's cotton or a blend with an even weave. Popular brands: Lugana, Jobelan, Murano.
Aida vs Linen: Direct Comparison
| Aspect | Aida | Linen |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility of holes | Very clear | You have to count |
| Beginner-friendliness | High | Medium-low |
| End result | Rustic, visible | Fine, elegant |
| Price | Inexpensive | 2–3 times more expensive |
| Stitching speed | Faster | Slower |
| Eye-friendliness | Very good | Tiring |
When to choose Aida?
- You are a beginner
- You want to see quick progress
- Your work will look a bit more rustic – that's OK
- You are making a gift and need a reliable result
- Your project is large (large stitches are almost always more practical on Aida)
When to choose linen?
- You have stitched at least 5 Aida projects
- You want a fine, elegant look
- Your work will be a heirloom – linen lasts 200 years, Aida 50
- You want photo-realism with the finest details
- You work with good daylight and relaxed concentration
When to choose Evenweave?
- You want a fine look without the linen jump
- You need neutral colors (Lugana has beautiful pastels)
- You want cotton instead of flax
Care Differences
Aida is robust and can be washed multiple times without problems. Linen is more delicate and can shrink or bleach in water that is too hot. For both: hand wash at 30°C. Details in our Washing Guide.
How to switch from Aida to linen?
- Start with a small linen project (max. 20x20 cm)
- Use 28-count linen for the first try (similar stitch size to 14ct Aida)
- Good light is a must
- Don't be discouraged if the first stitches seem uncertain – it normalizes after 100 stitches
What we use at Stitchi Studio
All our finished embroidery kits use 14ct Aida – the reliable, beginner-friendly choice. For advanced stitchers who want linen, we can also make photo embroidery kits on linen upon request.
Which fabric do we use?
At Stitchi Studio, all finished embroidery kits use 14ct Aida – the reliable, beginner-friendly choice. For advanced stitchers who want linen, we can also make photo embroidery kits on linen upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is easier to stitch: Aida or linen?
Aida – by a clear margin. The holes are visible, the honeycomb structure guides the needle.
Is linen more valuable?
Material value: yes, linen is more expensive. Hobby-wise: no, both are of equal value. "Finer looking" doesn't mean "better."
Which count of linen corresponds to 14ct Aida?
28-count linen (28ct), because you stitch over 2 threads. The stitches will be the same size.
Can I stitch a 14ct pattern on linen?
Yes. Use 28-count linen or 28-count evenweave – the stitch size will then be correct.