Planning Your Cross Stitch Canvas
Nothing is more devastating in cross stitch than spending 100 hours on a piece only to realize you don't have enough fabric at the edge to frame it. Calculating the required fabric size is the very first step of any project and depends entirely on your 'Fabric Count.'
Understanding Fabric Count (Aida)
Fabric count refers to how many 'holes' or 'squares' there are per linear inch.
- 14 Count: 14 stitches per inch. The most common size for beginners.
- 18 Count: 18 stitches per inch. Results in a smaller, more detailed finished piece.
- 28/32 Count (Evenweave/Linen): Usually stitched 'over two' threads, meaning 32-count fabric results in a 16-count finished design.
The Formula
The total fabric size is the 'Design Size' plus a mandatory 'Border Allowance.'
Fabric Side = (Stitch Count / Fabric Count) + (2 * Border)
The Framing Buffer
You should never cut your fabric to the exact size of the design. You must add at least 2 to 3 inches of 'white space' on all four sides. This extra fabric is used to pull the piece tight over a mounting board for framing, or to be tucked into the back of a hoop. Without this buffer, the piece cannot be professionally finished.