PLAN YOUR FABRIC BEFORE YOU START
Cross-stitch size calculator
Find the stitched size of a full cross-stitch chart on Aida. Compare fabric counts, then add the margins you need for finishing.
How to calculate cross-stitch size
Stitched width = chart width in stitches ÷ fabric count. Use the same calculation for height. Multiply inches by 2.54 to convert to centimetres. Fabric width = stitched width + twice the margin on one edge.
For example, a 70 × 84 stitch chart on 14-count Aida measures 5 × 6 inches. A 3-inch margin on each of the four edges needs an 11 × 12 inch piece of fabric. Three inches is an example allowance, not a requirement: check your hoop, framing and finishing method.
The same 70 × 84 chart on different Aida counts
| Aida count | Stitched inches | Stitched cm |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 6.36 × 7.64 | 16.16 × 19.40 |
| 14 | 5 × 6 | 12.70 × 15.24 |
| 16 | 4.38 × 5.25 | 11.11 × 13.34 |
| 18 | 3.89 × 4.67 | 9.88 × 11.85 |
| 22 | 3.18 × 3.82 | 8.08 × 9.70 |
Values are rounded to two decimal places. A higher count makes the same chart smaller; it does not change the number of stitches.
Aida, evenweave and crochet are different
This calculator uses effective stitches per inch. For 28-count evenweave worked over two threads, use 14; do not enter 28 as the effective stitch count. Crochet needs both stitch and row gauge, so use the crochet settings in the chart maker instead.
Measurements are estimates before washing or finishing. Check fabric dimensions and any shrinkage allowance before cutting. This does not calculate thread quantities.