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otaku Publish time 2009-4-4 10:02

Fabric Counts

I myself initially not know what the counts are referring to and the only thing i know is larger counts means smaller stitch and tiny mini holes--- but to what extent and how should i measure it?

Then i found some information on the web and would like to share it here with you!

I think everyone agrees that aida is the most common fabric used in cross stitching (i dont know any other brand). Now, lets get to the point:

By 14 counts, it means that there are 14 holes per inch
By 18 counts,...................................18 holes per inch and so on!

I am still lack of experience in cross stitching but as far as i am concerned, and talking to experienced cross stitchers -- when producing a chart for cross stitching from a photo, the image appears clearer with larger counts i.e. higher quality and more detailed finish! But nevertheless, it requires better stitching skills.

Strawberry Cat Publish time 2012-2-25 20:58

If you are used to inches:
14 ct aida = 14 stitches per inch
14 ct aida = 28 ct evenweave (if stitched over two threads)

16 ct aida = 16 stitches per inch
16 ct aida = 32 ct evenweave (if stitched over two threads)

18 ct aida = 18 stitches per inch
18 ct aida = 36 ct evenweave (if stitched over two threads)

If youre used to centimetres:

14 ct aida = 5,5 stitches per cm

16 ct aida = 6,2 stitches per cm

18 ct aida = 7 stitches per cm

liz0222 Publish time 2009-4-5 14:25

Thanks for sharing with us!

junjun Publish time 2009-5-18 13:06

heh ,thank you,

Hamsteren09 Publish time 2009-5-23 17:18

when producing a chart for cross stitching from a photo, the image appears clearer with larger counts i.e. higher quality and more detailed finish!
I think its also depends on the charting quality. When the charting quality is poor then it also look very obvious on larger count.

nadinex Publish time 2009-6-18 00:29

I never use larger count. I think that pictures tend to be the best on 14 or 16count

ebi Publish time 2009-9-18 04:24

Thanks! Very useful information.
But in my country we use centimeters. I always have to convert inch/cm, its annoying.

StitchAndi Publish time 2010-1-7 03:01

I love using 22ct hardanger for projects. You can stitch over two threads and it is equall to 11 ct or over 1 thread for a very fine finish.

When I stitch over one thread on hardanger I only use 1 thread of floss.

angel-666 Publish time 2010-12-22 22:23

I am stitching on 40 count newcastel.

koorkoor Publish time 2011-6-9 14:31

I have only stitch in an Aida cloth

rafahubner Publish time 2011-6-16 10:13

Thanks! Thats just what I was looking for

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