Data Source and Methodology
This calculator uses standard mathematical formulas based on industry definitions for needlework fabric. The primary variable, "Fabric Count," is a standard textile measurement defining the number of stitches per linear inch.
Reference: Definition of "Fabric Count" (Stitches per Inch)
Date: circa 1900s
All calculations are based strictly on these geometric formulas.
The Formulas Explained
The calculator first determines the size of the stitched design and then adds the requested margin to find the final fabric size.
1. Design Size Calculation (Inches): The number of stitches is divided by the fabric count to find the design's dimensions in inches.
$Design\,Width\,(inches) = \frac{Stitch\,Width}{Fabric\,Count}$
$Design\,Height\,(inches) = \frac{Stitch\,Height}{Fabric\,Count}$
2. Total Fabric Size Calculation (Inches): The margin is added to *both sides* of the design (top/bottom and left/right), so it is multiplied by two.
$Total\,Fabric\,Width = Design\,Width + (2 \times Margin)$
$Total\,Fabric\,Height = Design\,Height + (2 \times Margin)$
3. Centimeter Conversion: All inch-based values are converted to centimeters for convenience.
$Value\,(cm) = Value\,(inches) \times 2.54$
Glossary of Variables
- Design Width/Height (Stitches)
- The total number of squares your pattern is wide or high, as found on your chart.
- Fabric Count
- The number of stitches you can make in one linear inch of fabric. A 14-count Aida has 14 stitches per inch, while a 16-count has 16. A higher count means smaller stitches and a smaller final design.
- Margin / Border
- The empty fabric space left on all four sides of your stitched design. This is essential for lacing, stretching, and framing your finished piece.
- Aida Cloth
- A popular, easy-to-use cross stitch fabric with a clearly visible grid of holes, making it ideal for beginners. Its count is a direct 1:1 ratio (1 stitch per square).
- Evenweave (e.g., Linen)
- A fabric with an equal number of threads running vertically and horizontally. Stitches are often done "over two threads." If you stitch over two on 28-count linen, it is equivalent to 14-count Aida (28 / 2 = 14). You would enter "14" as your fabric count in that case.
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example
Let's plan a project with the following details:
- Pattern Size: 100 stitches wide by 70 stitches high.
- Fabric Choice: 14-count Aida (so, Fabric Count = 14).
- Desired Margin: 3 inches for framing.
1. Calculate Design Size (Inches):
$Design\,Width = \frac{100\,stitches}{14\,count} = 7.14\,inches$
$Design\,Height = \frac{70\,stitches}{14\,count} = 5.00\,inches$
Your stitched area will be 7.14" x 5.00".
2. Calculate Total Fabric Size (Inches):
$Total\,Width = 7.14 + (2 \times 3) = 13.14\,inches$
$Total\,Height = 5.00 + (2 \times 3) = 11.00\,inches$
You need to cut a piece of fabric that is 13.14" x 11.00" (or just 13.5" x 11" to be safe).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much margin should I add for cross stitch?
A 3-inch (7.5 cm) margin on all sides is widely recommended. This provides ample space for mounting on a scroll frame or hoop while stitching, and is the standard amount required by professional framers for lacing or stretching the piece.
What if I am stitching on Linen or Evenweave "over two threads"?
You need to divide the fabric's advertised count by two. For example, if you are stitching "over two" on 28-count Linen, you would enter 14 into the "Fabric Count" field (since 28 / 2 = 14). If you stitch "over one," you would enter 28.
Does a higher fabric count make the design bigger or smaller?
Smaller. A higher count number (like 18-count or 22-count) means there are *more* stitches packed into each inch. This results in smaller, more detailed stitches and a smaller overall design size compared to using a low-count fabric like 11-count or 14-count.
Can I calculate the reverse? (How big can my design be?)
While this tool calculates fabric size from stitch count, you can work backward using the formulas. To find the maximum stitch size for a piece of fabric:
- Measure your fabric (e.g., 15" x 12").
- Subtract your desired margin (e.g., 3" on all sides): $(15 - 6) = 9"$ and $(12 - 6) = 6"$.
- Multiply the available design area by your fabric count (e.g., 14):
- $Max\,Stitch\,Width = 9\,in \times 14\,count = 126\,stitches$
- $Max\,Stitch\,Height = 6\,in \times 14\,count = 84\,stitches$
Why is a margin so important?
A margin serves several purposes: 1. Fraying: Fabric edges fray. The margin gives you a buffer zone. 2. Handling: It allows you to hold the fabric or secure it in a hoop/frame without touching or creasing the stitched area. 3. Framing: Professional framing requires extra fabric to wrap around a mat board, pull taut, and secure.
Tool developed by Ugo Candido. Hobby & Craft content reviewed by the CalcDomain Hobbies Editorial Board.
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