Aida Fabric Explained: 11ct, 14ct, 16ct, or 18ct?
Last updated: June 14, 2026 — by Stitchi Studio
When you first step into an embroidery shop — or onto an online product page — you'll stumble upon terms like 14 count Aida, 11ct, or 5.5 stitches per cm. Sounds technical, but it's not. In this article, we'll explain exactly what Aida fabric count means, and which one is best for your first (or fiftieth) embroidery project.
In short
For most patterns, 14 count Aida is the best choice. All our cross-stitch kits with your own photo and our ready-made designs come standard on 14 count Aida — no fuss with counting, just start stitching.
What is Aida fabric?
Aida is a cross-stitch fabric specifically woven with clear square blocks and holes at the corners. This means you don't have to count threads — each block is one cross-stitch. The fabric is usually made of 100% cotton, sometimes with a polyester blend for extra durability. For beginners, Aida is clearly the best choice, as its structure "counts for you".
What does count mean?
The count indicates how many cross-stitches fit per inch (2.54 cm) on your fabric. The higher the number, the finer your fabric — and the smaller each individual cross-stitch becomes.
You usually see it noted in two ways:
- 14 ct or 14 count — 14 cross-stitches per inch
- 5.5 stitches/cm — the same fabric, but expressed per cm
Both numbers refer to the same fabric. A quick calculation: 14 ÷ 2.54 = 5.5 stitches per cm.
The four most commonly used Aida counts
Aida 11 count (4.4 stitches/cm)
Coarse and large. Ideal for:
- Very young children learning to embroider
- People with poor eyesight or who prefer not to wear their glasses
- Quick projects where you want a big impact
Disadvantage: the pattern becomes physically larger — a 100 × 100 square design on 11ct is already about 23 × 23 cm.
Aida 14 count (5.5 stitches/cm) — the standard
By far the most commonly used count, and our recommendation for beginners. The squares are large enough to count easily, but fine enough to achieve beautiful details. Almost all cross-stitch kits are designed for 14 count. A pattern of 100 × 100 stitches will result in approximately 18 × 18 cm.
Tip: all our pre-made designs and the own-photo kit are delivered standard on 14 count Aida — you don't need to calculate anything.
Aida 16 count (6.3 stitches/cm)
Slightly finer than 14ct, nice for projects where you want a little more detail without switching to linen. Requires a bit more concentration and good lighting.
Aida 18 count (7.1 stitches/cm)
Fine, detailed, and loved by advanced embroiderers. Not recommended for your first project: the holes become small and you really need good lighting. But the end results are beautiful and neat.
How do I calculate what size fabric I need?
Good question — a common mistake is cutting too tight. Calculate like this:
- Count the number of squares in your pattern (width and height).
- Divide by the number of stitches per cm of your fabric. Example: 100 squares ÷ 5.5 (14ct) = 18.2 cm.
- Add at least 10 cm (5 cm on each side) to allow for stretching in a hoop and for framing later.
For a 100 × 100 pattern on 14 count, you therefore need at least 28 × 28 cm of fabric. It's better to have a bit extra than too little. Prefer not to calculate? Our Aida calculator gives you the correct size in one click.
Which color Aida do you choose?
White and cream are the classics — they highlight your work well and suit any style. But modern embroiderers are also increasingly opting for:
- Black or dark grey — exciting for pastel-colored thread, gives a graphic effect.
- Linen-look (natural color) — warm and calm, beautiful for botanical or vintage patterns.
- Colored Aida (mint, soft pink, ochre) — great for integrating the background directly into your design.
Tip: dark fabric looks good visually but is harder to count — not the very first choice for your starting project.
Don't feel like gathering loose materials?
Our complete kits contain 14ct Aida cut to size, all DMC threads, a needle, and the pattern. View pre-made designs → or let us create a cross-stitch kit from your own photo →
How many strands of thread do you use per count?
Mouline thread consists of 6 strands that you split for use. What you use depends on your count:
- 11 count: 3 strands
- 14 count: 2 strands (the standard)
- 16 count: 2 strands
- 18 count: 1 or 2 strands (depending on desired coverage)
Too many strands = your work will be bumpy and stiff. Too few = the fabric will show through. Experiment with it, as it's also a matter of personal preference.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stitch the same pattern on different count Aida?
Absolutely. The finished work will only be larger (lower count) or smaller (higher count). Calculate in advance how large your work will be so that it fits your frame or intended destination.
What is the difference between Aida and linen?
Linen has no visible squares — you count the threads yourself and usually stitch over two threads. Much more beautiful end result, but tougher to learn. Beginners: stick to Aida.
How do I wash Aida fabric?
Gently by hand in lukewarm water with a mild detergent (wool detergent works fine), do not wring, let dry flat. Washing can be done before stitching to prevent shrinkage or afterwards to remove finger oils.
Get started
Still unsure? Start with our cross-stitch kit with your own photo on 14 count Aida — that's the count most patterns are designed for, and the best place to start. Looking for a gift? Check out our Father's Day selection — all kits on 14 count Aida and ready to start. Also read our beginner's guide to cross-stitching and the guide to reading patterns.