What this calculator works out
This calculator converts a design's stitch dimensions and the fabric's count into the stitched area in square centimetres.
It gives the design area only. Fabric must be bought considerably larger to allow for framing, mounting and handling.
Enter your details
Before you cut fabric
- Fabric count is the number of stitches per inch — 14 count means 14 stitches to the inch.
- Add a margin all round. Five to eight centimetres on every side is the usual minimum, and more for a piece to be framed.
- Evenweave and linen are usually stitched over two threads, which halves the effective count — 28 count linen stitches at the same size as 14 count aida.
- The stitch count comes from the chart, not from the finished size printed on the packaging.
The same chart worked on 11, 14 and 18 count fabric produces the same picture at three different sizes — larger on coarser fabric, smaller on finer. Choosing the count is therefore choosing the finished dimensions, which is worth doing before buying a frame rather than after.
How this calculator works
Stitches divided by count, converted to centimetres:
Width in cm = stitches wide ÷ count × 2.54
Height in cm = stitches high ÷ count × 2.54
Area = width × heightThe 2.54 converts inches to centimetres, since fabric count is defined per inch. For fabric worked over two threads, halve the count before entering it.
Worked example: a 140 by 180 design
Using the default figures — 140 by 180 stitches on 14 count fabric:
- Stitched area: 829 cm², which is 25.4 by 32.7 cm
Add a 6 cm margin on every side and the fabric needed is 37.4 by 44.7 cm. Work the same chart on 18 count and the design shrinks to 19.8 by 25.4 cm — nearly 40% less area, and a different frame. The fabric is bought for the design plus margin, so choosing the count first is what makes the fabric order right.
Common mistakes
- Buying fabric to the design size. Margins are essential for framing and handling.
- Forgetting that linen is worked over two threads. Halve the count.
- Using the packet's finished size. Work from the chart's stitch count.
- Choosing a count without checking the frame. The count determines the size.
- Cutting without oversewing the edges. Aida and linen fray readily.
Frequently asked questions
What fabric count should I choose?
11 or 14 count aida for beginners and for anyone who finds fine work hard on the eyes; 16 or 18 for finer detail; 28 or 32 count evenweave and linen worked over two threads for a smoother finished surface. Coarser fabric is faster and larger; finer is slower and more detailed.
How much margin should I leave?
At least 5 cm on every side for a small piece, and 8 to 10 cm for anything to be professionally framed or stretched over a board. Framers need fabric to grip. Running out of margin is unfixable without adding fabric, which shows.
What is the difference between aida and evenweave?
Aida has clearly defined holes in blocks, which makes it easy to see where stitches go — good for beginners. Evenweave and linen are plain woven and are usually stitched over two threads, giving a smoother surface and allowing fractional stitches. The finished appearance differs noticeably.
How do I stop the fabric fraying?
Oversew or zigzag the raw edges before starting, or use masking tape as a temporary measure — though tape residue can mark fabric over a long project. Bias binding tape is the tidiest solution for a piece that will be worked for months.
Is what I enter stored?
No. Figures are processed in your browser and never transmitted or retained.
Related tools
References
- GOV.UK — textile labelling and consumer information
- MoneyHelper — budgeting for craft materials
Sources are checked at publication and can change — how I choose and check references.