What is 18ct Aida?
The number of squares per inch determines the count of the fabric. Similarly, 16-count Aida has 16 squares or stitches per inch and 18-count Aida has 18 squares or stitches per inch. The higher the count, the more stitches per inch.
Which is bigger 14 count or 18 count Aida cloth?
Stitch Count The size of the weave is measured by how many stitches can be made in one inch. This is called the fabric’s count. The most common counts in Aida Cloth are 11, 14, 18 and 28. The higher the number, the smaller the stitches will be, because there are more stitches in each inch.
What is the finest Aida cloth?

Charles Craft Aida Without a doubt, they are the best quality aida on this list. Its starch level is stiff but smooth, they have fantastically bold colors, a great range, and a nice price tag. The price is on the expensive side, but its far from prohibitive.
Which size Aida is best?
For beginners the 14 count Aida Cloth is usually recommended, but common fabric counts vary from 10 to 24. The higher the stitch count, the tighter and finer the weave will be, so it gets increasingly difficult to glide your needle through the fabric.
How big should my cross stitch fabric be?
Calculate the Fabric Size Required
Stitched Image Size | Suggested Fabric Size | |
---|---|---|
Fabric Count | Width | Width |
14 Count Aida | 30″ | 36″ |
16 Count Aida | 26 ¼” | 32 ¼” |
18 Count Aida | 23 ¼” | 29 ¼” |
What size needle do I use for 18-count Aida?

Cross stitch needle size chart
Aida | Linen | Needle size |
---|---|---|
11-count | Size 22 | |
14-count | 28-count | Size 24 |
16-count | 32-count | Size 26 |
18-count | 36-count | Size 28 |
How do you tell the right side of Aida?
When using a needle, it is easier for the needle to find the hole on one side than the other. If you look at the fabric in a good light you will see that one side looks smoother and the holes clearer than the other which might look or feel a bit rougher.
Can I use embroidery needle for cross stitch?
These sizes are suggestions. Different bands have variations in their diameter and length of a needle, but as a rule of thumb a size 24 Tapestry holds up to 6 strands of embroidery floss and will fit in the size 14 count Aida. (The size 24 Tapestry is the most popular size needle for cross stitch.)