Aida Fabric Guide

What is Aida Fabric?

Aida fabric (also called Aida cloth) is a specially woven cotton fabric designed specifically for cross stitch and counted thread embroidery. It features a distinctive grid-like weave with clearly visible holes that make counting stitches easy and precise.

The unique basket-weave construction creates natural squares where threads intersect, forming a grid pattern. Each square represents one cross stitch, making Aida the most beginner-friendly cross stitch fabric available.

      Why Aida is Perfect for Cross Stitch
      Visible grid pattern - Easy to see where to place each stitch
Consistent hole spacing - Creates uniform, even stitches
Stiff structure - Holds shape while stitching, reduces need for stabilizers
Beginner-friendly - No counting threads, just count the holes
Widely available - Found in craft stores worldwide
Affordable - Most economical cross stitch fabric option

    

A Brief History of Aida

Aida fabric was developed in Germany in the late 19th century and is named after the Verdi opera. The Zweigart company, founded in 1877, pioneered the production of Aida cloth and remains one of the leading manufacturers today. The fabric revolutionized cross stitch by making the craft accessible to beginners and experienced stitchers alike.

Aida Count Explained

Aida fabric is measured by its "count" - the number of stitches (holes) per inch. The count determines how large or small your finished stitches will be.

11-Count Aida

11 stitches per inch

The largest common Aida size. Produces bold, chunky stitches that are easy to see. Best for children, those with vision difficulties, or when you want a large finished piece.

Stitch size: ~2.3mm
Strands: 3-4 strands of floss
Needle: Size 22-24

14-Count Aida

14 stitches per inch

The most commonly used Aida count. Provides a nice balance between detail and visibility. Standard choice for most cross stitch patterns and kits.

Stitch size: ~1.8mm
Strands: 2 strands of floss
Needle: Size 24-26

16-Count Aida

16 stitches per inch

Slightly smaller than 14-count, offering more detail while still being manageable. Good stepping stone to higher counts.

Stitch size: ~1.6mm
Strands: 2 strands of floss
Needle: Size 24-26

18-Count Aida

18 stitches per inch

Smaller stitches for more detailed work. Popular for patterns with fine detail or when you want a smaller finished size. Requires good lighting and vision.

Stitch size: ~1.4mm
Strands: 1-2 strands of floss
Needle: Size 26-28

22-Count Aida

22 stitches per inch

Fine Aida for advanced stitchers. Creates very detailed work with small finished sizes. Often called "petit point" fabric. Requires excellent lighting and patience.

Stitch size: ~1.1mm
Strands: 1 strand of floss
Needle: Size 26-28

Understanding the Math: A pattern that is 100 stitches wide will measure 7.1 inches on 14-count Aida (100 ÷ 14 = 7.1), but only 4.5 inches on 22-count Aida (100 ÷ 22 = 4.5). Higher count = smaller finished piece.

Aida Count Comparison Table

Use this table to compare Aida counts and find the right fabric for your project:

Aida Count	Stitches per Inch	Stitch Size	Strands to Use	Needle Size	Difficulty Level	Best For
11-Count	11	2.3mm	3-4	22-24	Beginner	Children, large projects, low vision
14-Count	14	1.8mm	2	24-26	Beginner	Most projects, standard choice
16-Count	16	1.6mm	2	24-26	Intermediate	More detail, smaller finish
18-Count	18	1.4mm	1-2	26-28	Intermediate	Detailed patterns, portraits
22-Count	22	1.1mm	1	26-28	Advanced	Fine detail, miniatures

Finished Size Example: 140 x 140 Stitch Pattern

11-Count 12.7" x 12.7"

14-Count 10" x 10"

16-Count 8.75" x 8.75"

18-Count 7.8" x 7.8"

22-Count 6.4" x 6.4"

Which Aida Count Should I Use?

Choosing the right Aida count depends on several factors. Here's a guide to help you decide:

Choose 11-Count If...

You're teaching children to cross stitch
You have vision difficulties or limited dexterity
You want a large, bold finished piece
You prefer fast, satisfying progress
Working on projects like ornaments or bookmarks

Choose 14-Count If...

Recommended

You're a beginner starting your first project
You're following a standard pattern or kit
You want good detail without straining your eyes
You want a versatile, all-purpose fabric
You're not sure which count to choose

Choose 16-18 Count If...

You've completed several 14-count projects
Your pattern has fine details or small lettering
You want a smaller finished piece
You're stitching a portrait or detailed image
You have good lighting and comfortable vision

Choose 22-Count If...

You're an experienced stitcher seeking a challenge
You want miniature or jewelry-sized pieces
Maximum detail is essential for your design
You have excellent lighting and magnification
You enjoy slow, meditative stitching

Need help calculating how much fabric you need?

Use Our Free Fabric Calculator

Aida Fabric Colors Available

Aida fabric comes in a variety of colors to complement your cross stitch projects. Here are the most common options:

White

The most popular choice. Bright white provides maximum contrast for colorful designs. Ideal for framing and traditional pieces.

Ecru / Natural

A warm, off-white shade. Creates a softer, vintage appearance. Great for samplers, antique-style patterns, and earthy designs.

Ivory / Cream

Warmer than white but lighter than ecru. Popular for wedding pieces, christening gifts, and elegant designs.

Black

Dramatic background for bright colors. Popular for space themes, dramatic designs, and contemporary art. Requires good lighting.

Navy Blue

Deep blue for nautical themes, night skies, or ocean scenes. Creates stunning contrast with white and metallic threads.

Burgundy / Red

Rich, warm background for holiday projects, romantic themes, or elegant designs. Pairs beautifully with gold thread.

Forest Green

Natural backdrop for nature themes, holiday designs, or woodland creatures. Creates depth in landscape pieces.

Pastel Colors

Soft pinks, blues, yellows, and lavenders. Perfect for baby projects, spring designs, and whimsical patterns.

Tip for Dark Fabrics: When stitching on black or dark Aida, place a white cloth or light box behind the fabric to make the holes easier to see. Good lighting is essential!

How to Calculate Fabric Size Needed

Calculating the right amount of Aida fabric is crucial to avoid running out mid-project. Here's the formula:

The Formula

Design Size in Inches = Pattern Stitch Count ÷ Fabric Count

Fabric Size Needed = Design Size + Margin (at least 3-4 inches on each side)

1

Find Your Pattern Dimensions

Check your pattern for the stitch count (e.g., 140 wide x 180 tall)

2

Divide by Fabric Count

For 14-count: 140 ÷ 14 = 10 inches wide, 180 ÷ 14 = 12.86 inches tall

3

Add Margins

Add 6-8 inches total (3-4 inches per side): 10 + 8 = 18 inches wide, 12.86 + 8 = 21 inches tall

4

Round Up

Always round up to the nearest inch or available fabric size: 18" x 21" minimum

      Why Add Margins?
      Framing: You need extra fabric to wrap around frame backing
Hoop space: Your hoop needs room beyond the design edges
Finishing options: Allows for different mounting methods
Error correction: Gives you room if the design shifts slightly

    

Skip the math - let us calculate it for you!

Free Fabric Calculator

Aida vs Evenweave vs Linen: Cross Stitch Fabric Comparison

Aida isn't the only option for cross stitch. Here's how it compares to other popular fabrics:

Feature	Aida	Evenweave	Linen
Weave Pattern	Basket weave with obvious holes	Single thread weave, uniform	Single thread, slightly irregular
Stitch Method	Over 1 square	Over 2 threads	Over 2 threads
Difficulty	Beginner	Intermediate	Advanced
Visibility	Very easy to see holes	Moderate - need to count threads	Harder - irregular threads
Drape	Stiff, holds shape	Softer, better drape	Soft, elegant drape
Appearance	Distinct grid visible	Grid less visible	Natural, organic look
Price	$	$$	$$$
Best For	Beginners, kits, learning	Samplers, detailed work	Heirloom pieces, antique style

Aida Cloth

Pros: Easiest to learn on, affordable, widely available, consistent stitch size, doesn't require frame

Cons: Visible grid in final piece, stiff texture, less elegant drape, limited to counted work

Common counts: 11, 14, 16, 18, 22

Evenweave (Lugana, Jobelan)

Pros: Softer hand, smoother finish, grid less visible, can use for other embroidery

Cons: Must count threads, higher cost, requires more experience

Common counts: 25, 28, 32 (stitch over 2 = equivalent to 12.5, 14, 16 count)

Linen

Pros: Beautiful natural texture, elegant appearance, perfect for heirloom pieces, ages beautifully

Cons: Irregular thread count, most expensive, requires experience, needs stabilizer for some work

Common counts: 28, 32, 36, 40 (stitch over 2)

Recommendation: Start with 14-count Aida to learn the basics. Once you're comfortable, try evenweave for a smoother finish. Save linen for special heirloom projects once you've mastered the technique.

Caring for Aida Fabric

Proper care before, during, and after stitching ensures your cross stitch projects look their best for years to come.

Before Stitching

Pre-Wash (Optional)

Some stitchers pre-wash to remove sizing and check for shrinkage. Hand wash in lukewarm water, air dry flat, and iron before stitching.

Iron Creases

Use a medium heat setting with steam to remove fold lines. Iron on the wrong side with a pressing cloth to protect the fabric.

Prevent Fraying

Overlock edges with a sewing machine, use fray check, or fold and stitch the edges. Masking tape works for temporary protection.

During Stitching

Clean Hands

Always wash and dry hands before stitching. Natural oils can stain fabric over time. Some stitchers use gloves for white fabric.

Store Properly

Roll projects rather than folding to prevent creases. Store in a clean cotton pillowcase or acid-free tissue, away from direct light.

Remove Hoop

Take fabric out of the hoop when not stitching to prevent permanent ring marks. This is especially important for long-term projects.

Washing Finished Pieces

1

Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle soap (dish soap or textile wash).

2

Submerge and soak the piece for 10-15 minutes. Gently swish - never rub, twist, or wring.

3

Rinse thoroughly in clean cool water until no soap remains. Change water multiple times if needed.

4

Remove excess water by laying flat on a clean white towel and rolling gently. Never wring.

5

Dry flat on a clean white towel, reshaping if needed. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat.

Ironing Finished Work

Always iron on the wrong side (back) of the fabric
Place the piece face down on a fluffy towel - this protects the stitches and keeps them raised
Use a pressing cloth between the iron and fabric
Use medium heat with steam - avoid high heat which can scorch threads
Press gently - don't slide the iron which can distort stitches
For stubborn wrinkles, use a spray bottle to dampen the fabric first

Important: Never use bleach, harsh chemicals, or machine wash/dry your cross stitch. Test thread colorfastness before washing if using hand-dyed or specialty threads. Red and dark colors may bleed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aida Fabric

What does "14-count Aida" mean?

The count refers to the number of stitches (or holes) per inch of fabric. 14-count Aida has 14 holes per inch, meaning your stitches will be approximately 1.8mm each. Higher counts have smaller holes and create more detailed work.

What is the difference between Aida and Aida cloth?

There is no difference - Aida and Aida cloth are the same thing. Both terms refer to the gridded cotton fabric specifically designed for cross stitch and counted thread embroidery.

Can I use regular fabric for cross stitch?

While possible, regular fabric lacks the visible grid that makes counting easy. You'd need to use waste canvas (a grid overlay that washes away) or carefully count threads. Beginners should stick to Aida until comfortable with the technique.

How many strands of thread should I use?

This depends on your Aida count: 11-count uses 3-4 strands, 14-count uses 2 strands, 16-18 count uses 1-2 strands, and 22-count typically uses 1 strand. Using the right number ensures full coverage without over-stuffing holes.

Why is my Aida fabric so stiff?

New Aida fabric contains sizing (a starch-like finish) that makes it easier to stitch on. This stiffness helps hold shape in a hoop. If you prefer softer fabric, pre-wash it before stitching - the sizing will wash out.

Can I mix different Aida counts in one project?

This isn't recommended as the stitch sizes wouldn't match. If you need different detail levels, consider using one count and adjusting the number of strands, or design separate elements on different fabrics to be assembled later.

What needle size should I use with Aida?

Use tapestry needles (blunt tip) sized 22-24 for 11-count, 24-26 for 14-16 count, and 26-28 for 18-22 count. The needle should pass through holes easily without distorting the fabric.

How do I prevent my Aida from fraying?

Options include: overlock/serge the edges with a sewing machine, apply fray check liquid to edges, fold edges over and baste, use masking tape for temporary projects, or leave extra margin and trim after finishing.

What's the best Aida count for beginners?

14-count Aida is universally recommended for beginners. It's large enough to see easily but small enough to create nice detail. Most patterns and kits are designed for 14-count, making it the most versatile choice.

Where can I buy Aida fabric?

Aida fabric is available at craft stores (Joann, Michaels, Hobby Lobby), online retailers (Amazon, 123Stitch), specialty needlework shops, and often in the craft section of department stores. Zweigart and DMC are popular quality brands.

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