Calculate cross stitch size, fabric count, or stitch count from width, height, and finished dimensions in inches, cm, mm, ft, or m.
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Cross Stitch Size Formula
The cross stitch size calculation is based on the relationship between the number of stitches in the pattern, the fabric count, and the finished stitched size.
Size\ Width = Width\ Stitches / Fabric\ Count
Size\ Height = Height\ Stitches / Fabric\ Count
Fabric\ Count = Stitches / Finished\ Size
Stitches = Fabric\ Count * Finished\ Size
- Width Stitches: the number of stitches across the pattern.
- Height Stitches: the number of stitches from top to bottom of the pattern.
- Fabric Count: the number of stitches per unit of fabric, usually stitches per inch.
- Size Width: the finished stitched width of the design.
- Size Height: the finished stitched height of the design.
The calculator converts fabric count to stitches per inch before calculating. If you enter fabric count per centimeter, it multiplies by 2.54. If you enter fabric count per millimeter, it multiplies by 25.4.
For finished size, the calculator works in inches internally. It converts centimeters, millimeters, feet, and meters to inches, performs the calculation, then converts the result back to the selected output unit.
If you enter stitch count and fabric count, it calculates the finished size. If you enter finished size and stitch count, it calculates the fabric count. If you enter fabric count and finished size, it calculates the number of stitches.
Common Cross Stitch Fabric Counts
Fabric count tells you how many stitches fit into one inch. A higher count makes the same pattern stitch up smaller.
| Fabric Count | Meaning | Finished Width for 100 Stitches |
|---|---|---|
| 11 count | 11 stitches per inch | 9.09 in |
| 14 count | 14 stitches per inch | 7.14 in |
| 16 count | 16 stitches per inch | 6.25 in |
| 18 count | 18 stitches per inch | 5.56 in |
| 22 count | 22 stitches per inch | 4.55 in |
Example Calculations
Example 1: Find the finished size
You have a pattern that is 140 stitches wide and 98 stitches high. You plan to stitch it on 14 count fabric.
Size\ Width = 140 / 14 = 10\ in
Size\ Height = 98 / 14 = 7\ in
The finished stitched area is 10 inches by 7 inches.
Example 2: Find the fabric count
You want a 120-stitch-wide design to finish at 8 inches wide.
Fabric\ Count = 120 / 8 = 15
You need fabric with about 15 stitches per inch. Since 15 count fabric is less common, you might choose 14 count for a slightly larger result or 16 count for a slightly smaller result.
FAQ
Does the finished size include extra fabric for framing?
No. The calculated size is the stitched design area only. If you need fabric for framing, stretching, or finishing, add a border around the stitched size. A common allowance is 2 to 3 inches on each side, but the best amount depends on the final project.
Why does a higher fabric count make the design smaller?
Fabric count is the number of stitches per inch. On 18 count fabric, 18 stitches fit into one inch. On 14 count fabric, only 14 stitches fit into one inch. Because the stitches are packed closer together on higher-count fabric, the same pattern finishes smaller.
Can this be used for linen or evenweave fabric?
Yes, if you use the effective stitch count. For example, if you stitch over two threads on 28 count linen, the effective count is 14 stitches per inch. In that case, enter 14 as the fabric count.
