What is Fabric Count?
Fabric count — also called "count" — refers to the number of holes (or stitchable intersections) per linear inch in a piece of evenweave fabric. A 14-count Aida cloth has 14 holes per inch; a 22-count has 22 holes per inch.
The higher the count, the smaller each individual stitch. Higher counts produce more detail in a given area — but they also require more precision and can be harder to see without magnification. Lower counts make stitching easier and faster, but each stitch is larger, so a design with the same number of stitches will be bigger on the fabric.
14-count is the most popular choice for beginners and general use — it's easy to see, works well with 2 strands of DMC floss, and is widely available. See also: Aida, evenweave, and linen compared.
Aida Count Reference Chart
Note: 28-count and 32-count are stitched over 2 threads on evenweave/linen, giving the same effective stitch size as 14-count and 16-count Aida respectively.
| Count | Holes/Inch | Stitch Size | 100 Stitches | 200 Stitches | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 11 | ~2.3mm | 9.1 x 9.1 in | 18.2 x 18.2 in | Large, easy projects; beginners with vision difficulties |
| 14 | 14 | ~1.8mm | 7.1 x 7.1 in | 14.3 x 14.3 in | Most popular; beginners; general use |
| 16 | 16 | ~1.6mm | 6.3 x 6.3 in | 12.5 x 12.5 in | Intermediate; more detail than 14-count |
| 18 | 18 | ~1.4mm | 5.6 x 5.6 in | 11.1 x 11.1 in | Detailed work; experienced stitchers |
| 22 | 22 | ~1.2mm | 4.5 x 4.5 in | 9.1 x 9.1 in | Fine detail; petit point |
| 28 | 28 (over 2) | ~1.8mm | 7.1 x 7.1 in | 14.3 x 14.3 in | Evenweave/linen; same size as 14-count |
| 32 | 32 (over 2) | ~1.6mm | 6.3 x 6.3 in | 12.5 x 12.5 in | Fine linen; same size as 16-count |
Visual Size Comparison
How large a 100-stitch design would be on each fabric count (proportional, not to actual scale):
To calculate the exact finished size for any pattern and fabric count, use the fabric calculator.
How to Use This Chart
Start with your pattern's stitch count (width x height in stitches). If your pattern is 140 x 100 stitches, find the row for your chosen fabric count, then scale from the 100-stitch column: 140 stitches on 14-count = 140 ÷ 14 = 10 inches wide.
Always add 2–3 inches of margin on each side for hoop or frame allowance — buy fabric that is at least 4–6 inches larger than your finished design size in both directions. For precise calculations, use the fabric calculator.
Choosing the Right Count
14-count Aida is the best starting point for most stitchers. The stitches are large enough to see clearly, the fabric is widely available in any craft store, and nearly all patterns are designed with 14-count in mind.
11-count is a good choice if you want a faster, larger project, or if fine detail is difficult to see. Great for children's projects or quick gifts.
16-count and 18-count produce more detail in the same physical space. Use these when a pattern has subtle color gradients — like a portrait or landscape — and you want the finished piece to be a particular size.
28-count and 32-count linen are for experienced stitchers who prefer the softer, more natural feel of linen over cotton Aida. Stitched over 2 threads, they produce the same effective stitch size as 14-count and 16-count Aida. See: fabric types compared. New to the craft? Start with the beginner's guide.
Enter any stitch count and fabric count to get precise dimensions.