How to choose cross stitch canvas? Useful guide.

So, you have chosen a pattern and are already going to stitch, but the question arose: what cut of canvas will you need for this? Everyone who is fond of embroidery sooner or later faces this problem. Now we will tell you how to choose the right canvas size in centimeters, and what kind of fabric it is in general.

The most popular cross stitch fabric is Aida canvas. The interweaving of threads in it forms a uniform square with holes into which it is convenient to stick and poke a needle. Aida is a way of weaving threads into fabric. In each square, the threads are intertwined according to the principle – two in the middle and two on the sides. Thanks to this, the squares on which you embroider remain even and do not deform. Whoever the manufacturer of the canvas is, if you see that it is Aida, then the threads in it form special squares for embroidery, which are convenient to work with.

On the label, next to the inscription Aida, there is always a number (sometimes the word “Count” is added). This is the basic information about the size of the squares that you will embroider. The number indicates the number of crosses that fit in one inch. The most popular canvas sizes are Aida 14, 16 and 18. There are also Aida 11 and 22, but these sizes are less commonly used. For example, take 14 Aida. One inch of Aida No. 14 contains 14 crosses.

In order to accurately calculate the size of the fabric, you need to divide the number of crosses in your pattern by the number of the canvas on which you will embroider. And then multiply this number by 2.54, since 1 inch = 2.54 cm. For example, let’s take a 50 x 60 cross pattern.

• 14 Aida: 50/14 = 3.5 inches x 2.54 = 8.89 cm; 60/14 = 4.2 inches x 2.54 = 10.67.
• 16 Aida: 50/16 = 3.1 inches x 2.54 = 7.9 cm; 60/16 = 3.75 inches x 2.54 = 9.5 cm
• 18 Aida: 50/18 = 2.7 inches x 2.54 = 6.85 cm; 60/18 = 3.3 inches x 2.54 = 8.5 cm

As you can see, the same drawing on a different canvas will be of different sizes.

You can also perform a calculation, knowing how many crosses fit in 10 cm of canvas:

• Aida 11 – 43 crosses in 10 cm
• Aida 14 – 55 crosses in 10 cm
• Aida 16 – 63 crosses in 10 cm
• Aida 18 – 71 crosses in 10 cm
• Aida 22 – 87 crosses in 10 cm

And now another important point – the allowances necessary for registration. To make the finished embroidery easy to arrange – we need allowances. They should be at least 5 cm on each side – in width and height. If not the entire field is sewn up (partial sewing), then these allowances may be larger. If you leave the finished embroidery in the hoop, then the size of the canvas should be such that it is convenient to neatly hem the edge. To do this, add 5-8 cm to the diameter of the hoop.

A little more about the size of the canvas: often the word “Count” is used when designating the size. To make it easier to understand which canvas number is right for you, focus on the following information:

• Aida No. 7 is a “children’s” canvas, which is used for learning to embroider. It has a wide weave.
• Aida No. 11 is a fairly large canvas. Perfect for embroidering simple patterns, for embroidering napkins, tablecloths, runners and pillows.
• Aida No. 14 is a wonderful canvas size, on which it is quite easy to embroider, and the pattern comes out exquisite and detailed.
• Aida No. 16 – used in embroidery with well-designed details, the most common canvas size.
• Aida No. 18 is a canvas for people with good eyesight who embroider exquisite and intricate work.

Embroidery on such a canvas comes out “dotted”, very detailed. As you can see, nothing difficult. We hope that this information will be helpful.

Happy cross stitch!