- Count for that width
- 17.5 per inch
- Nearest standard count
- 18-count
7.78 × 5.56 in finished - Size on the original count
- 10 × 7.14 in
25.4 × 18.1 cm
| Count | This chart finishes at | Stitches for the original size |
|---|---|---|
| 11-count | 12.73 × 9.09 in | 110 × 79 |
| 14-count | 10 × 7.14 in | 140 × 100 |
| 16-count | 8.75 × 6.25 in | 160 × 114 |
| 18-count | 7.78 × 5.56 in | 180 × 129 |
| 22-count | 6.36 × 4.55 in | 220 × 157 |
| 25-count, over two (like 12.5-count) | 11.2 × 8 in | 125 × 89 |
| 28-count, over two (like 14-count) | 10 × 7.14 in | 140 × 100 |
| 32-count, over two (like 16-count) | 8.75 × 6.25 in | 160 × 114 |
How the conversion works
Fabric count is the number of stitches per inch. The finished size of a design is simply its stitch count divided by the fabric count: 140 stitches on 14-count fabric is 140 ÷ 14 = 10 inches. To find the count that gives a particular width, divide the other way: 140 stitches across 8 inches needs 140 ÷ 8 = 17.5 stitches per inch, so 18-count Aida is the nearest standard fabric.
Worked example
A chart is 140 × 100 stitches and was designed for 14-count Aida, where it finishes at 10 × 7.1 inches. You want it to fit an 8-inch frame.
- The count needed is 140 ÷ 8 = 17.5 per inch.
- The nearest standard count is 18, where the design is 7.8 × 5.6 inches.
- To keep the original 10-inch size on 18-count instead, the design would need 180 × 129 stitches.
Common counts
Aida is sold in 11, 14, 16, 18 and 22 count; 14 is the usual beginner’s choice. Evenweaves and linens come in 25, 28 and 32 count and are usually worked over two threads, giving 12.5, 14 and 16 stitches per inch. Finer counts give smoother curves and smaller pieces, but each stitch is harder to see.
Tips
- Check the thread too. Finer fabric needs fewer strands: two strands on 14-count, one or two on 18-count, one on 22-count and above.
- Remember the margins. Add at least 3 inches on every side for framing; the fabric size calculator adds them for you.
- Read more in the guide to fabric counts.
Frequently asked questions
Does changing the fabric count change the pattern?
No. The chart stays the same; only the size of each stitch changes. A 140-stitch-wide design is 10 inches wide on 14-count and 7.8 inches on 18-count.
What do the over-two rows mean?
Evenweave and linen are usually stitched over two threads, which halves the count. 28-count worked over two gives 14 stitches per inch, the same size as 14-count Aida.
How do I keep a design the same size on a finer count?
You need more stitches. The last column shows how many stitches wide and tall the design would have to be on each count to match its original size; regenerate it from the photo or source image at that size in the pattern maker.
My target size falls between two counts. Which should I pick?
Pick the finer count if you like detail and don't mind smaller stitches, or the coarser one for quicker stitching. You can also adjust the frame or mount, which is often easier than changing fabric.
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