Aida Fabric Counts Explained
The count number is the most important specification on a piece of Aida fabric. It controls the stitch size, the physical dimensions of your finished design, and the level of detail possible. This guide covers all five common counts with practical advice on when to use each.
Calculate fabric size for any count:
Enter your stitch count above to see your fabric size
All Aida counts compared
| Count | Stitches/inch | Hole size | Strands | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11-count | 11 | 2.2mm | 3 | Beginner |
| 14-count | 14 | 1.7mm | 2 | Beginner |
| 16-count | 16 | 1.5mm | 2 | Intermediate |
| 18-count | 18 | 1.3mm | 1 | Advanced |
| 28-count | 14 | 0.9mm | 2 | Advanced |
11-count Aida
11-count Aida has 11 holes per inch, making it the most open-weave Aida fabric available. The large holes are easy to see and thread, which is why many beginners start here. Each stitch is about 2.2mm across, so designs come out noticeably larger than on 14-count — useful when you want a bold, visible result or when working with younger stitchers.
Best for: Large wall hangings, Beginner projects, Chunky designs. Popular uses: Cushion covers, Large samplers, Kids crafts.
Use the 11-count Aida calculator →14-count Aida
14-count Aida is the standard for cross stitch. The vast majority of patterns, kits, and tutorials are designed around 14-count, which gives 14 stitches per inch and produces a clean, balanced result that photographs well and frames easily.
Best for: Most cross stitch patterns, General projects, Kits. Popular uses: Greetings cards, Framed pictures, Kits.
Use the 14-count Aida calculator →16-count Aida
16-count Aida sits between the common 14-count and the finer 18-count. It gives 16 stitches per inch, producing designs about 14% smaller than 14-count with noticeably more detail. It is a good step up for stitchers who want finer work without moving straight to 18-count.
Best for: Detailed designs, Intermediate stitchers, Fine portraits. Popular uses: Portraits, Detailed landscapes, Fine samplers.
Use the 16-count Aida calculator →18-count Aida
18-count Aida has 18 holes per inch, producing very fine stitches that allow intricate detail work. It is typically used for jewelry pieces, bookmarks, and small framed designs where the fine finish matters. Most stitchers use 1 strand of thread on 18-count.
Best for: Fine detail work, Jewelry, Bookmarks, Miniatures. Popular uses: Jewelry inserts, Bookmarks, Small framed pieces.
Use the 18-count Aida calculator →28-count Aida
28-count fabric (often called 28-count evenweave or 28-count Jobelan) is worked over 2 threads, which gives an effective stitch count equivalent to 14-count Aida. The resulting fabric has a softer, linen-like appearance compared to the more structured Aida weave. It is often used for heirloom and wedding pieces.
Best for: Heirloom projects, Evenweave look, Fine linen-style work. Popular uses: Heirloom samplers, Fine linens, Wedding pieces.
Use the 28-count Aida calculator →Frequently asked questions
The number refers to the count — how many holes per inch of fabric. 14-count has 14 holes per inch, giving 14 stitches per inch. Higher numbers mean smaller stitches and finer detail in the same physical space.
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