The count of a fabric is the number of stitches (aida) or threads (evenweave and linen) per inch. It is the single number that decides how big a chart comes out.
Size
A 40 by 40 stitch chart is 2.9 in square on 14-count, 2.5 in on 16-count and 2.2 in on 18-count. Same chart, same stitches, three sizes. Every generated pattern states the finished size for the count you entered; the chart size calculator does it for any count.
Aida versus evenweave
Aida is woven in clear blocks with obvious holes at the corners, one block per stitch. It is the easiest fabric to count on and the one most kits use.
Evenweave and linen have single threads, and cross stitch is normally worked over two threads. A 28-count evenweave over two gives 14 stitches per inch, exactly the same size as 14-count aida, with a smoother background and the option of working fractional stitches over one thread. The fabric count database lists both the thread count and the stitches per inch it gives over two.
Strands
Six-strand floss is separated and recombined for stitching. The usual choice:
| Fabric | Strands |
|---|---|
| 11-count aida | 3 |
| 14-count aida | 2 |
| 16-count aida | 2 |
| 18-count aida | 1 or 2 |
| 28-count evenweave over two | 2 |
| 32-count linen over two | 1 or 2 |
More strands give fuller coverage and a more raised stitch; fewer show more fabric and suit fine detail. Kits and charts on this site assume 2 strands on 14-count. Separate the strands one at a time and put them back together before threading; it lies flatter than pulling two off at once.
Thread quantity
A full cross on 14-count with 2 strands uses roughly 1.2 cm of thread including starts and ends, so one 8 m skein covers about 1,900 stitches. The thread estimator does this sum for any count and strand number, and the chart legend gives the stitch count per colour.