How many strands of embroidery floss for cross stitch? Separating DMC floss
In short: DMC embroidery floss comes as a 6-strand bundle — you almost never use all six. For cross stitch: 3 strands on 11ct, 2 strands on 14ct–16ct, 1 strand on 18ct and finer. For backstitch lines, usually 1 strand, or 2 if you want the line to appear bolder.
Number of Strands Table
| Fabric Count | Cross Stitch Strands | Backstitch Strands |
|---|---|---|
| 6ct–9ct | 4–6 | 2–3 |
| 11ct Aida | 3 | 1–2 |
| 14ct Aida | 2 | 1 |
| 16ct Aida | 2 | 1 |
| 18ct Aida | 1 | 1 |
| 22–28ct Linen | 1–2 (over 2 threads) | 1 |
Why the number of strands matters
Too few strands — your cross stitches look thin, the Aida fabric shows through. Too many — stitches become puffy, holes are stretched, needle is hard to pull through. The correct number gives full coverage: dense stitches, no fabric visible.
Separating DMC floss without tangles
- Cut one working length — about 45–50 cm (an arm's span). No longer.
- Hold one end and grip a single strand between thumb and forefinger.
- Pull the strand straight up — slowly. The other 5 will bunch up below; smooth them out with your other hand.
- Repeat until you have the desired number.
- Lay the strands flat, smooth them, and thread them together into the needle's eye.
Railroading for neater stitches
If you're working with 2 or more strands and want each cross to lie flat:
- After bringing the needle up, gently separate the threads with the needle tip (they lie side by side, not twisted).
- Complete the half cross stitch — threads lie flat.
- Do the same for the second diagonal.
Railroading takes longer but results in a significantly neater look.
Specialty Threads
- DMC Light Effects (metallic) — usually 1 strand plus 1 strand of standard DMC. Cut shorter (35 cm).
- Perlé thread — use whole, do not separate.
- Variegated thread (Color Variations) — same number of strands as regular.
How long should your working thread be?
45–50 cm is optimal. Longer and the thread frays from constant pulling.
Common Mistakes
- Using all 6 strands at once. Almost never correct.
- Too few strands on 11ct. 2 strands look thin — use 3.
- 2 strands backstitch on fine count. Line becomes bolder than the cross stitches beneath.
Looking for an embroidery kit?
Our kits contain enough DMC thread — you only need to separate it to the correct number of strands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many strands of embroidery floss for 14ct Aida?
2 strands for cross stitch, 1 strand for backstitch.
How many strands for 11ct Aida?
3 strands for cross stitch, 1–2 for backstitch.
How many strands for 18ct Aida?
1 strand for both.
Why separate DMC floss?
The 6-strand bundle is a transport unit. Cross stitch requires 1–3 strands depending on the fabric for full coverage without stiffness.
What is railroading?
A technique where threads lie side-by-side instead of twisted, for clearer stitches.
Summary
Adjust the number of strands to the fabric: 3 for 11ct, 2 for 14ct–16ct, 1 for 18ct. Backstitch usually 1 strand. Separate threads gently, working length 45–50 cm, railroad for show-pieces. Then your stitches will appear full and even.