Counted Cross Stitch - Fabric

The fabric used in cross stitch is an evenweave fabric. Evenweave fabric has the same number of threads per inch both vertically and horizontally. The number of threads per inch is known as the thread count. For example, 14 count Aida has 14 threads both vertically and horizontally in each square inch. The larger the number of threads per inch, the smaller the design area.

Fabric can be worked in hand, on a hoop, or on scroll bars. The hoop and scroll bars help to keep the fabric taut and the stitches smooth.

Aida

This is the most popular fabric for cross stitch. Notice that each vertical or horizontal thread is actually a group of threads. The most popular counts of Aida are 11, 14, and 18. The higher the count, the smaller the stitch. Most Bucilla counted cross stitch kits include 14 count Aida. Aida gives a firm foundation for the stitched design, and is usually 100% cotton.

Evenweave Fabric

This is another type of fabric found in many Bucilla kits. Because the threads in this category tend to be irregular (both thick and thin), most designs are stitched over two threads rather than one. Since the stitches are over two threads, the overall design looks like a 14 count design.

This fabric is available in counts ranging from 11 to 50 (yes, 50 threads per inch!). However, the most popular is 28 count. It comes in linen, cotton, rayon, and cotton/polyester blends

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