“14 count” tells you the fabric’s stitch density. A 14 count Aida has 14 visible squares across every linear inch. One square equals one cross-stitch, so you place 14 full stitches per inch in both directions. In metric terms this is about 5.5 stitches per centimeter.
How to calculate finished size
- Find your chart size in stitches.
- Divide by 14 to get inches.
- Convert to centimeters if needed by multiplying inches by 2.54.
- Add framing margins.
Examples
• 98 by 140 stitches on 14 count = 7 by 10 inches.
• 50 stitches wide on 14 count = 50 ÷ 14 ≈ 3.57 inches wide (about 9.1 cm).
Common margin choice: add 2 to 3 inches on each side. A 7 by 10 inch design would need at least 11 by 14 inches of fabric if you want 2 inch margins all around.
Thread and needle choices
• Floss strands: most stitchers use 2 strands of cotton floss for full crosses on 14 count. Use 1 strand for backstitch and detail. Use 3 strands if you prefer heavier coverage or if the fabric holes look too open.
• Needle size: tapestry size 24 works well for 14 count. Size 26 is fine if your tension is light or you prefer a slimmer needle.
• Coverage look: 14 count gives a classic cross-stitch texture with small white dots between stitches unless you pull tension tight or use 3 strands.
Why choose 14 count
Pros
• Easy to see and handle, good for beginners and relaxed stitching.
• Works nicely with standard charts and symbols.
• Comfortable with hoops and Q-snaps.
• Widely available in many colors and in cotton or stiffened finishes.
Considerations
• Fine detail is limited compared to higher counts like 16 or 18.
• Quarter and three-quarter stitches are a bit fiddly on Aida since the weave has firm holes. If your project has many fractional stitches, evenweave might feel smoother.
Aida versus evenweave and linen
• Aida is woven with grouped fibers that create clear squares. Perfect for full crosses.
• Evenweave and linen are counted by threads, not squares. If you stitch “over two” on 28 count evenweave, the result matches 14 stitches per inch. Many stitchers choose 28 over two when a chart calls for 14 count but includes lots of fractional stitches.
Fabric prep and handling
• Prewashing: most modern white or solid Aida does not require prewashing. If you do wash, expect a slight softening. Test colored fabrics for dye fastness first.
• Gridding: mark every 10 by 10 with a water-erasable pen or a contrasting thread. Test your marker on a corner of the same fabric before you commit.
• Edges: zigzag or use masking tape to prevent fraying while you stitch.
• Tension: keep fabric taut in a hoop or frame so your crosses lie flat without crushing the weave.
Reading charts and converting counts
If a chart lists size on 14 count and you want another count, use this formula:
Finished width in inches = stitch count width ÷ fabric count
To switch from 14 to 16 or 18 count, divide by 16 or 18 instead. The stitch count does not change, only the fabric count.
Backstitch and specialty stitches
• Backstitch lines are usually done with 1 strand on 14 count for crisp outlines.
• French knots and beads sit well on 14 count. For seed beads use a beading or sharp needle and secure with a small cross or half stitch.
• Fractional stitches work, but you may need to pierce the fabric’s middle thread. A sharper needle can help for those stitches only.
Buying and cutting fabric
• Measure your design, add margins, then add a small safety buffer if you are uncertain.
• Typical kit and package sizes list their dimensions in inches. Confirm the usable area after you account for margins and your hoop or frame.
• Keep a small stash of 14 count scraps for ornaments, bookmarks, and test stitches.
Quick reference
• Density: 14 stitches per inch, about 5.5 per centimeter.
• Typical strands: 2 for full crosses, 1 for backstitch.
• Needle: tapestry 24 or 26.
• Equivalent over-two: 28 count evenweave or linen stitched over two threads gives the same finished size as 14 count Aida.
With these basics you can estimate fabric size, pick the right needle and strand count, and know exactly what visual texture to expect from 14 count Aida.
