Tips & Inspiration

In short: A counted cross-stitch pattern is a grid chart (printed or saved as PDF) where each square corresponds to a cross-stitch, and each symbol indicates which thread color to use. You "count" the squares from a fixed reference point on blank Aida fabric — the design is not pre-printed. This is the most popular format worldwide because patterns are sharper, more detailed, and cheaper to print.

What exactly is a counted cross-stitch pattern?

A counted cross-stitch pattern is a grid chart with three characteristics:

• One square = one cross-stitch on the Aida fabric.
• Each symbol (heart, dot, star, letter, ...) tells you the thread color, listed in a color legend.
• The fabric remains blank. You usually start in the middle and count squares as you stitch.

In contrast, a pre-printed (stamped) cross-stitch kit has the design printed directly on the fabric — you simply fill in the pre-printed shapes.

What does a typical counted cross-stitch pattern include?

1. The pattern chart — black and white or color, each symbol representing a stitch.
2. A color legend — assigns each symbol to a DMC thread number plus color name.
3. Finished size at various Aida counts (11ct, 14ct, 16ct, 18ct).
4. Stitch count — width × height in stitches (e.g., 200×250).
5. Optional backstitching — backstitch/stem stitch, added over the cross-stitches later. More on reading a pattern chart here.

How to count a pattern?

1. Find the center — both on the fabric (fold twice) and on the pattern (usually marked with arrows).
2. Stitch from the center outwards, following one color.
3. Count squares to the next stitch of the same color and continue.
4. Work in color blocks or rows — whatever is most comfortable for you.
5. Mark stitched areas on your printout or in a pattern app.

Counted vs pre-printed: which suits whom?

• Counted cross-stitch = sharper details, wider design selection, cheaper PDFs, requires more focus. For anyone who wants to experience the full spectrum of cross-stitch art.
• Pre-printed (No-Count) = easier on the eyes, less concentration, but smaller design selection and higher fabric price. For absolute beginners or evenings when you don't want to think. Pre-printed cross-stitch explained.

What do you need for a counted cross-stitch pattern?

• Aida fabric — usually 14ct as standard, 11ct for larger holes. Aida count explained.
• DMC embroidery floss in the colors from the pattern legend.
• Tapestry needle — size 22–26 depending on Aida count.
• Embroidery hoop — optional, but recommended.
• The pattern chart — printed or on a tablet.
• Good lighting — underestimated, but crucial.

Or save yourself the shopping and start with a complete cross-stitch kit — everything included except the hoop.

Where can you find good counted cross-stitch patterns?

• Complete cross-stitch kits with chart + fabric + floss + needle. The easiest way. Check out our ready-to-stitch designs.
• PDF patterns for download. You get the fabric and floss yourself. Browse our PDF counted patterns.
• Your own photo as a pattern. Your photo is converted into a counted grid. Browse custom photo cross-stitch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Counted Cross Stitch difficult for beginners?

Technically not — the stitch is the same. But it requires more attention because you count on a blank grid. Start with a small (20×30 cm) pattern on 11ct or 14ct Aida.

What is the difference between counted and pre-printed cross-stitch kits?

With pre-printed, the design is on the fabric. With counted, it's on a separate chart — the fabric remains blank.

Are thread and fabric included in a counted cross-stitch pattern?

If you buy a kit: yes. If you only buy a PDF chart: no, then you get Aida and DMC yourself.

How do you read the color legend?

Each symbol corresponds to a DMC thread number plus color name. Full explanation in our pattern reading guide.

Can I have a counted cross-stitch pattern made from my photo?

Yes — a photo is digitally converted into a stitch grid with a limited DMC palette. Choose a sharp photo with a plain background.

Summary

A counted cross-stitch pattern is a grid chart where each square corresponds to a cross-stitch, and each symbol corresponds to a thread color. The fabric remains blank, and you count your way through. It is the standard format for serious cross-stitch art — sharper than pre-printed, cheaper as a PDF, and infinitely more versatile in design.