Fabric count and strands
Count is how many stitches (Aida blocks) or threads (evenweave, linen) fit in one inch. It sets the size of your finished design and how much floss each stitch uses.
Aida vs evenweave and linen
Aida is woven in blocks, and you make one cross per block. 14-count Aida gives 14 stitches per inch. Evenweave and linen are counted in single threads, and cross stitch is usually worked over two threads. So 28-count evenweave over two also gives 14 stitches per inch, and 32-count over two gives 16. Scarlet Quince's calculator notes the same convention.
Strands
Six-strand cotton is separated and stitched with fewer strands. Many guides suggest 2 strands for cross stitch on 14-count, often 3 on 11-count, 1–2 on 18-count and finer, and 1 strand for backstitch. Patterns and personal taste vary. Fewer strands give lighter coverage. More strands use thread proportionally faster.
| Stitches per inch | Typical fabric | Often-suggested strands (cross) |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 11-count Aida | 3 |
| 14 | 14-count Aida, 28-count over 2 | 2 |
| 16 | 16-count Aida, 32-count over 2 | 2 |
| 18 | 18-count Aida, 36-count over 2 | 1–2 |
Effect on floss
A smaller stitch uses less thread, roughly in proportion to its size. That's why Skein Tally scales the crosses-per-skein figure by count ÷ 14 and by 2 ÷ strands (details).
Sources
- Scarlet Quince, fabric calculator notes ("over 1 or 2", counts per inch).
- SewCalcs, floss calculator strand suggestions.
- Stitchmate, thread usage calculator notes on strands and bundles.