How long does a cross-stitch take? Realistic time estimate per size
How long a cross stitch takes depends on four things: the size, the count of your Aida fabric, the number of colors, and how practiced your hand is. As a guideline: a beginner completes 150–250 stitches per hour. A 30×40 cm kit on 14ct Aida therefore takes an average of 25–45 hours — a manageable project for a few evenings a week.
How long does cross stitching take per size?
The table below is based on 14ct Aida (the most common count in our kits) and on an average beginner. An experienced stitcher can achieve 1.5 to 2 times that pace.
| Size | Beginner | Experienced |
|---|---|---|
| 20×25 cm | 10–18 hours | 6–12 hours |
| 30×40 cm | 25–45 hours | 15–28 hours |
| 40×50 cm | 45–75 hours | 28–50 hours |
| 50×70 cm | 80–130 hours | 55–90 hours |
| 70×80 cm | 140–220 hours | 95–150 hours |
Translated into evenings: a 30×40 kit worked on four two-hour evenings a week will take around 5–6 weeks. A 40×50 will be more like 2–3 months. Think of it as running a marathon versus a short jog — it's okay for it to take time, that's the whole point.
What determines your speed?
- Fabric count. The higher the count (16ct, 18ct), the more stitches per cm² and the longer it takes. Read the explanation in Aida count explained.
- Number of colors. More colors = more frequent thread changes = fewer stitches per hour.
- Type of design. A solid background can be worked in long rows; a detailed portrait requires more concentration.
- Routine. The first evenings you'll be slow; then a rhythm will emerge.
- Light and posture. Good light and a quiet place can double your pace — really.
How many cross stitches do you make per hour?
An honest average:
- Beginner: 150–250 stitches per hour.
- Average: 250–400 stitches per hour.
- Experienced: 400–600 stitches per hour.
Speed primarily increases when you stick to one technique — for example, the English method ("parking"), where you work in sections by color instead of by row. Do you want to increase your pace? Smart thread splitting saves a lot of time: splitting embroidery floss, how many strands per cross stitch.
Which size suits the time you have?
Our selection guide in one sentence:
- First project or gift within 2 weeks — 20×25 or 30×40 cm.
- Evening project for the winter — 40×50 cm.
- Lifelong project level — 50×70 cm and larger.
Still doubting between ready-made and your own photo? Read which embroidery kit suits you.
The calm of "slowness"
Many embroiderers say afterward: the fact that it took a long time was precisely the best part. You build something while watching a series or unwinding after a busy day. That's also why we make our kits so that you don't have to wait for anything: custom-cut Aida, thread sorted by symbol, two needles, the pattern with color chart, a Dutch manual. You open the box and can start immediately.
Speed up your work: 5 practical tips
- Work in sections of 10×10 (the large squares on the pattern) instead of randomly.
- Split your thread before you start — saves a waiting moment every 20 minutes.
- Two needles at once for two frequently used colors. Our kits include two.
- Place your starting point centrally, not in a corner — less chance of counting errors leading to cutting out.
- Iron your work flat after each session — you'll count more easily.
For the true beginner: our Beginners collection contains compact designs where you can immediately put these tips into practice.
FAQ
How long does a 40×50 embroidery kit take?
Between 45 and 75 hours for a beginner. Spread over 8–10 weeks on a few evenings a week is realistic.
Can you finish a cross stitch in one weekend?
A 20×25 cm design is possible, provided you stitch for a whole Saturday and Sunday. For last-minute gifts: choose small.
What is the time difference between 14ct and 18ct?
18ct has about 65% more stitches per cm² than 14ct. The same design will therefore take approximately 1.5 times as long.
Will I get faster after a while?
Yes, almost everyone does. After 20–30 hours of embroidering, you often double your initial speed because your hand starts counting automatically.
Does a custom photo kit take more time than a ready-made design?
Not by definition. The time depends on the size, not on whether the image comes from you or from us.
Ready to start?
Do you want a size that fits the time you have? Check out our Custom Photo Embroidery Kit — you choose the size and we do the rest. Completely handmade in the Netherlands, delivered within 4–10 days, free shipping in NL and BE from €35.