How many strands of embroidery floss for cross stitch? Separating DMC floss
In short: DMC embroidery floss comes as a 6-strand bundle — you almost never use all six. For cross stitch: 3 strands on 11ct, 2 strands on 14ct–16ct, 1 strand on 18ct and finer. For backstitch lines usually 1 strand, or 2 if the line should appear bolder.
Number of Strands Table
| Fabric Count | Cross Stitch Strands | Backstitch Strands |
|---|---|---|
| 6ct–9ct | 4–6 | 2–3 |
| 11ct Aida | 3 | 1–2 |
| 14ct Aida | 2 | 1 |
| 16ct Aida | 2 | 1 |
| 18ct Aida | 1 | 1 |
| 22–28ct Linen | 1–2 (over 2 threads) | 1 |
Why the number of strands matters
Too few strands — your cross stitches will look thin, the Aida fabric will show through. Too many — stitches will be puffy, holes stretched, needle difficult to pull. The right number provides full coverage: dense stitches, no fabric visible.
How to separate DMC floss without tangling
- Cut one working length — about 45–50 cm (an arm's span). No longer.
- Hold one end and grab one strand between your thumb and forefinger.
- Pull the strand straight up — slowly. The other 5 will tangle underneath; smooth them out with your other hand.
- Repeat until you have the desired number.
- Lay the strands flat, smooth them, and thread them together through the needle eye.
Railroading for neater stitches
If you're working with 2 or more strands and want each cross to lie flat:
- After coming up with the needle tip, carefully separate the threads (they lie side by side, not twisted).
- Complete the half cross stitch — threads lie flat.
- Do the same for the second diagonal.
Railroading takes longer but gives a significantly neater appearance.
Specialty Threads
- DMC Light Effects (metallic) — usually 1 strand plus 1 strand of standard DMC. Cut shorter (35 cm).
- Perlé Thread — use as a whole, do not separate.
- Variegated Thread (Color Variations) — same number of strands as regular.
How long should your working thread be?
45–50 cm is optimal. Longer and the thread will fray from constant pulling.
Common Mistakes
- Using all 6 strands at once. Almost never correct.
- Too few strands on 11ct. 2 strands look thin — use 3.
- 2 strands backstitch on fine count. Line will be bolder than the cross stitches beneath.
Looking for a Cross Stitch Kit?
Our kits contain enough DMC thread — you just separate it into the correct number of strands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many strands of embroidery floss for 14ct Aida?
2 strands for cross stitch, 1 strand for backstitch.
How many strands for 11ct Aida?
3 strands for cross stitch, 1–2 for backstitch.
How many strands for 18ct Aida?
1 strand for both.
Why separate DMC floss?
The 6-strand bundle is a transport unit. Cross stitch requires 1–3 strands depending on the fabric for full coverage without stiffness.
What is railroading?
A technique where threads lie parallel instead of twisted. For clearer stitches.
Summary
Adjust the number of strands to the fabric: 3 for 11ct, 2 for 14ct–16ct, 1 for 18ct. Backstitch usually 1 strand. Separate threads gently, working length 45–50 cm, railroading for show-pieces. Then your stitches will look full and even.