How to Choose the Right Canvas Size for Cross-Stitching

So you have chosen your pattern and are ready to start stitching — but here comes the question: what size of canvas do I need? Every embroidery enthusiast faces this sooner or later. Let’s look at how to calculate the proper size of canvas in centimeters and explore the most common canvas types.

What is Aida Canvas

Aida is the most popular fabric for cross-stitching. Its criss-crossed threads form even squares with holes, making it easy to insert the needle. The special weave structure keeps the squares even and prevents distortion, no matter the manufacturer.

Understanding the “Count”

On the canvas label, next to the word “Aida,” you’ll find a number — often with the word count. This indicates how many stitches fit in one inch. Popular sizes include:

• Aida 11
• Aida 14
• Aida 16
• Aida 18
• Aida 22

The most commonly used are 14, 16, and 18. For example, Aida 14 has 14 stitches per inch.

How to Calculate Canvas Size

1. Take the number of stitches in your pattern (width × height).
2. Divide by the chosen canvas count.
3. Multiply the result by 2.54 (since 1 inch = 2.54 cm).

Example Calculation

Pattern: 50 × 60 stitches

• Aida 14: 50/14 = 3.5" × 2.54 = 8.9 cm; 60/14 = 4.2" × 2.54 = 10.7 cm
• Aida 16: 50/16 = 3.1" × 2.54 = 7.9 cm; 60/16 = 3.75" × 2.54 = 9.5 cm
• Aida 18: 50/18 = 2.7" × 2.54 = 6.8 cm; 60/18 = 3.3" × 2.54 = 8.5 cm

As you can see, the same design will have different dimensions depending on the canvas count.

Number of Stitches per 10 cm of Canvas

• Aida 11 — 43 stitches
• Aida 14 — 55 stitches
• Aida 16 — 63 stitches
• Aida 18 — 71 stitches
• Aida 22 — 87 stitches

Allowing Extra Margins

Always leave at least 5 cm margins on each side to make framing easier. For partial embroidery, leave larger margins. If you plan to keep your piece in a hoop, add 5–8 cm to the hoop’s diameter so the edges can be neatly finished.

Canvas Sizes and Their Use

• Aida No.7 — children’s canvas for training, wide weave.
• Aida No.11 — large count, good for simple designs, napkins, tablecloths, runners, pillows.
• Aida No.14 — versatile, easy to stitch, gives detailed results.
• Aida No.16 — most popular, for well-detailed patterns.
• Aida No.18 — fine canvas for advanced stitchers with keen eyesight; highly detailed results.
• Aida No.22 — very fine, for extremely detailed embroidery.

Conclusion

In Povitrulya kits, we use Aida No.14 and No.16 — the best balance between comfort and beauty of the finished piece. Enjoy your stitching, and may embroidery bring you joy!