Cross Stitch Fabric Calculator: Find Your Design and Fabric Size
Use this free cross stitch fabric calculator to find out how big your design will finish and how much fabric to cut. Enter the stitch count of your pattern, pick your fabric, and the answer updates right away.
How to use the calculator
- Find the stitch count. Most patterns print it on the cover or the first page, for example “140w x 180h”. If yours does not, count the squares across and down the chart.
- Pick your fabric. Choose the count printed on the fabric package. For evenweave and linen, the calculator assumes you stitch over two threads.
- Set the margin. Leave at least 3 inches of bare fabric on every side. Use 4 inches if you plan to frame the piece.
- Read the result. The first number is the size of the stitched design. The second is the size to cut your fabric.
The math behind it
The calculator divides the number of stitches by the fabric count. That gives the size in inches. Then it adds the margin to all four sides.
- Design width in inches = stitches wide ÷ stitches per inch
- Design height in inches = stitches high ÷ stitches per inch
- Fabric width = design width + two margins
- Fabric height = design height + two margins
Example: a design 140 stitches wide and 180 stitches high on 14-count Aida measures 10 by 12.9 inches. With a 3 inch margin on every side, cut the fabric at 16 by 19 inches.
Stitches per inch for each fabric
| Fabric | Stitches per inch |
|---|---|
| 11-count Aida | 11 |
| 14-count Aida | 14 |
| 16-count Aida | 16 |
| 18-count Aida | 18 |
| 28-count evenweave or linen, over two | 14 |
| 32-count evenweave or linen, over two | 16 |
| 36-count evenweave or linen, over two | 18 |
A higher count gives smaller stitches, so the same pattern finishes smaller. Read more in our cross stitch fabric guide.
Why you need a margin
- A hoop or frame needs fabric to grip outside the design.
- A framer needs extra fabric to wrap around the mounting board. See how to frame cross stitch.
- Cut edges fray while you stitch, and the margin protects the design.
Fabric is cheap next to the hours you put into a project. When in doubt, cut it bigger.
Common questions
What if my fabric is already cut? Set the margin to 0 and compare the design size with your fabric. Subtract the design size from the fabric size and divide by two to see the margin you would have on each side.
Can I use it for needlepoint? The size math is the same: stitches divided by mesh. Our needlepoint canvas mesh guide has examples for 10, 13 and 18 mesh.
Does the calculator save my numbers? No. It runs in your browser and stores nothing.
