Aida Fabric Count Explained: 11ct, 14ct, 16ct, or 18ct?

If you're just starting with cross-stitch, the count of Aida fabric is often the first stumbling block. 11, 14, 16, 18 – what does it mean, and what's the difference?

The short answer: the count is the number of holes (or crosses) per inch of fabric. The higher the number, the finer and more detailed – but also the smaller the stitches will be.

What does "Count" actually mean?

"Count" indicates how many cross stitches you can stitch on one imperial inch (2.54 cm) of fabric:

• 11 count = 11 stitches per 2.54 cm – coarse and large
• 14 count = 14 stitches per 2.54 cm – the classic
• 16 count = 16 stitches per 2.54 cm – fine
• 18 count = 18 stitches per 2.54 cm – very fine, detailed

11 count Aida: Large and beginner-friendly

The holes are clearly visible, the stitches large. Perfect for children, beginners over 60, or anyone whose eyes aren't up for intricate work.

Thread: 3 strands of DMC for full coverage.
Suitable for: Children's projects, large wall hangings, quick visual success.

14 count Aida: The Standard

This is the best-selling Aida variant worldwide. 95% of all beginner cross-stitch kits and charts are designed for 14ct. The balance of detail, size, and eye-friendliness is just right.

Thread: 2 strands of DMC.
Suitable for: All beginners, classic motifs, most cross-stitch kits.

16 count Aida: Finer Detail

Holes are a bit smaller, the finished result looks finer. Popular with stitchers who want more detail without having to switch to linen.

Thread: 2 strands of DMC, some prefer 1.
Suitable for: Photo embroidery, smaller motifs, advanced beginners.

18 count Aida: Very fine

The holes are small, you'll need good light and possibly a magnifying glass. But you'll get stitched images with incredible detail – perfect for photo cross-stitch kits or realistic portraits.

Thread: 1–2 strands of DMC.
Suitable for: Photo realism, small motifs on a small area, advanced stitchers.

What fabric size do you need?

Here's the rule of thumb:

1. Count the squares of the design (width × height)
2. Divide by the count
3. The result is the design size in inches
4. Add 10–15 cm border on each side (for framing or embroidery hoop)

Example: 140 squares on 14ct = 10 inches = 25.4 cm. Plus 15 cm border per side = approx. 55 cm fabric width.

Which Aida should you choose?

You are a beginner: 14 count Aida. Period.
You stitch with children or have poor eyesight: 11 count Aida.
You want photo realism: 16 or 18 count.
You need a quick project: 11 count, because fewer stitches.
You are making a large wall hanging: 14 or 16 count.

Consider Aida colors

Besides the count, there are also different colors: white, ecru, natural, black, antique white. For beginners: white or ecru – the holes are most visible. Black Aida looks beautiful but is much harder to stitch.

Alternative: Linen or Evenweave?

Aida is not the only option. Linen and Evenweave give a finer look but are more challenging. Learn more in our Aida vs. Linen comparison.

Ready to stitch?

All our ready-made cross-stitch kits use 14 count Aida (unless otherwise specified) – the safest choice for a successful project.

Which count does Stitchly Studio use?

All our ready-made cross-stitch kits use 14ct Aida — the reliable choice for beginners and advanced stitchers. For photorealistic detailed work, our larger custom photo cross-stitch kits sometimes use 16ct, depending on the chosen format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Aida is easiest to stitch?

11 count Aida is the easiest due to the large holes, but 14 count is the worldwide standard.

Can I pre-wash Aida fabric?

Yes, this prevents shrinking after completion. Wash at 30°C without fabric softener and iron slightly damp.

Where can I find the count information on a cross-stitch kit?

It's usually on the packaging or in the instructions, often right next to "Stoff" or "Fabric."

Can I stitch a 14ct pattern on 18ct fabric?

Yes, but the finished image will be smaller. A 14ct design on 18ct will shrink by approximately 22%.