Splitting embroidery floss: how many strands do you use per cross-stitch?
Splitting embroidery floss means separating a strand of DMC floss (six threads twisted together) and using only the number of threads appropriate for your fabric. Rule of thumb: use 2 threads on 14ct Aida, 2–3 on 11ct, and 1–2 on 16ct/18ct. Too thick, and your stitches will look cramped; too thin, and your fabric will show through.
Why split embroidery floss before you start
DMC embroidery floss comes standard as six individual threads in one strand. For cross-stitch, you almost never stitch with all six—the stitch would be too bulky, and the Aida wouldn't show through properly. Splitting ensures:
- Even stitches: each cross is filled uniformly.
- Good coverage: the fabric doesn't show through your work.
- Less fraying: split thread tangles less easily.
How many threads per Aida count?
Aida count indicates how many stitches per inch are in the fabric. The higher the count, the smaller the stitches—and the thinner the thread should be.
| Aida | Threads (cross stitch) | Threads (backstitch) |
|---|---|---|
| 11ct | 2–3 | 1–2 |
| 14ct | 2 | 1 |
| 16ct | 1–2 | 1 |
| 18ct | 1 | 1 |
In our kits, we typically recommend 2 threads on 14ct Aida, as this provides the best balance between coverage and detail. Want to know which fabric is right for your project? Read Aida fabric: 11ct, 14ct, 16ct or 18ct explained.
Splitting embroidery floss in 4 steps
- First, cut to length. Work with pieces of about 45–50 cm (18–20 inches). Longer pieces fray and knot.
- Find the end of the strand and loosely hold all six threads.
- Pull one thread at a time upwards, straight up. Not sideways or diagonally—that will tangle the others.
- Realign the desired threads. Smooth them between your thumb and forefinger before threading your needle.
A small detail that makes a big difference: pull the threads straight up, not horizontally. That single thread should come up freely while the rest remain hanging accordion-style—that's exactly what you want.
Common splitting mistakes
- Too long a piece of thread. Beyond 50 cm, threads get tangled and fray more quickly.
- Not regrouping. After splitting, threads can get twisted; lay them flat next to each other.
- Splitting while stitching. Do it beforehand—it saves 5–10 minutes per hour and maintains your stitching rhythm.
- Knots at the end. Cross-stitch works without knots; hide your starting thread under your first few stitches on the back.
Loop-start: starting without a knot
If you're using 2 threads, use the loop-start:
- Cut one thread 90 cm (instead of two 45 cm threads).
- Fold it in half and thread the two loose ends through your needle.
- The fold ("loop") stays on the back. Your first half cross stitch goes through that loop—done, no knot.
Tighter, faster, and your back remains neat. This is also the standard method in our kits.
When to deviate from the guidelines?
Sometimes you intentionally want thinner or thicker results:
- Dark colours on light Aida: 1 thread for backstitch can look neater.
- White on white Aida: 3 threads gives a little more coverage.
- Half stitches in the background: 1 thread creates a misty effect.
Unsure about the choice? Our patterns specify exactly which colour with which symbol and which thread count. You can find out how to read this in how to read a cross-stitch pattern. Not unimportantly: in our kits, the thread comes already sorted by symbol, so you don't have to sort anything—just split, and go.
DMC codes and colour choice
The international standard for colours is DMC. Each colour has a code (for example, 310 for black, B5200 for snow white). This makes it easy to find matches. Read more about how to put together that palette in using the DMC colour chart.
FAQ
How many threads do you use on 14ct Aida?
Two threads for cross stitches and one thread for backstitch. This is the standard in almost every modern cross-stitch pattern.
Can you use 6 threads at once?
Not recommended for cross-stitch—the stitches become too bulky and the fabric will pucker. It can be useful for decorative techniques like stem stitch or French knots.
Why should you split thread before you start?
Because six threads together are too thick for the holes in Aida. Splitting gives neat cross stitches, better coverage, and less fraying.
How do you prevent threads from tangling when splitting?
Pull each thread straight up (not sideways), one at a time, from a piece no longer than 50 cm.
What is loop-start and when do you use it?
Loop-start is a knot-free starting method for an even number of threads (2 or 4). You use one long thread, fold it in half, and pull your needle through the loop. The result: a neat, knot-free back.
Further reading
Have you mastered these basics? Grab a ready-made embroidery kit or go for a personalized design with our Custom Photo Embroidery Kit—complete kit, thread already sorted by symbol, and a Dutch manual.