How do I convert stitches to inches?

Divide the number of stitches by the fabric count. 70 stitches on 14-count Aida is 5 inches.

What does 28-count over 2 mean?

Each cross stitch covers two threads of a 28-count fabric, so you get 14 stitches per inch — the same finished size as 14-count Aida.

How much extra fabric should I leave?

About 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) on each side is common, more if you plan a wide frame or mounting.

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Cross stitch size calculator: stitches, fabric count and inches

Updated: October 2026 · AppFactory Studio

The finished size of a cross stitch depends on just two numbers: the stitch count of the pattern and the fabric count (how many stitches fit in one inch). The formula is:

Finished size (inches) = stitches ÷ fabric count
For evenweave or linen stitched "over two" threads, divide the fabric count by 2 first (28-count over 2 = 14 stitches per inch).

Calculator

Quick reference table

Stitches	11-count	14-count	16-count	18-count
30	2.7 in	2.1 in	1.9 in	1.7 in
40	3.6 in	2.9 in	2.5 in	2.2 in
50	4.5 in	3.6 in	3.1 in	2.8 in
100	9.1 in	7.1 in	6.3 in	5.6 in
150	13.6 in	10.7 in	9.4 in	8.3 in
200	18.2 in	14.3 in	12.5 in	11.1 in

How much fabric to cut

Add a margin on every side for the hoop and for framing. Common advice is 2–3 inches per side (5–8 cm); more if you plan to frame with a wide mat or stretch the piece over a board. So a 50×50 design on 14-count (3.6 in) needs roughly a 9.6-inch square with 3-inch margins.

Which fabric count should I choose?

11-count Aida — big holes, easy to see. Good for kids, beginners and anyone who finds small grids tiring.
14-count Aida — the default for most kits and patterns. A good balance of size and detail.
16 / 18-count — smaller, finer results; harder on the eyes. Often uses fewer strands of floss.
28 / 32-count evenweave or linen over two — same finished size as 14 / 16-count, smoother look, trickier to count.

Strands of floss by fabric (common starting point)

Fabric	Strands for cross stitch
11-count	3
14-count	2
16-count	2
18-count	1–2

These are conventions, not rules — do a small test stitch to see whether coverage looks full enough for you.

FAQ

How do I convert stitches to inches?: Divide the number of stitches by the fabric count. 70 stitches on 14-count Aida is 5 inches.
What does 28-count over 2 mean?: Each cross stitch covers two threads of a 28-count fabric, so you get 14 stitches per inch — the same finished size as 14-count Aida.
How much extra fabric should I leave?: About 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) on each side is common, more if you plan a wide frame or mounting.

Want to try it on your phone first? PixStitch turns a photo into a 30–50 stitch pattern you stitch on screen — free on Android, one-time packs, no subscription. Get PixStitch on Google Play →