Mini Cross Stitch Patterns and Kits: Small Projects You Can Finish Fast
Mini cross stitch patterns are small designs that use little fabric and thread. They forgive mistakes, they finish quickly, and they make good gifts. This guide covers sizes, what comes in a mini kit, and what to make with the finished piece.
How small is mini?
There is no official size. On this site, we call a design mini when it is about 40 stitches or fewer on each side. The finished size depends on your fabric count. To find it, divide the number of stitches by the count.
| Design width | On 14 count | On 16 count | On 18 count |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 stitches | About 1.1 in | About 0.9 in | About 0.8 in |
| 20 stitches | About 1.4 in | About 1.3 in | About 1.1 in |
| 30 stitches | About 2.1 in | About 1.9 in | About 1.7 in |
| 40 stitches | About 2.9 in | 2.5 in | About 2.2 in |
For any other size, use our fabric calculator. It also tells you how much fabric to cut.
What comes in a mini kit
- A small piece of Aida fabric.
- Floss in the colors the design needs.
- A needle.
- A printed chart with a color key.
- Often a small hoop or frame for display. Check the listing, because some kits leave it out.
Our guide to beginner cross stitch kits explains what to look for before you buy.
Kit or pattern alone?
Choose a kit if you own no supplies yet. Choose a pattern alone if you already have fabric scraps and leftover floss, because a mini uses very little of both.
Good subjects for minis
- Hearts, stars, and simple fruit.
- A single flower. See our flower pattern guide.
- Initials. Our font generator charts any letters.
- Seasonal motifs, such as Christmas ornaments.
Our free cross stitch patterns page has five small charts to start with.
Tips for stitching small
- Pick a design with few colors and little back stitch detail.
- Start on 14 count. A higher count shrinks the design and makes the holes harder to see.
- Leave at least 2 inches of spare fabric on every side, so the piece fits a hoop or frame.
What to make with a mini
- Display it in a mini hoop.
- Mount it in a greeting card.
- Back it with felt and hang it as an ornament.
- Stitch two or three in a row for a bookmark.
