What is counted cross-stitch?
Counted cross-stitch means you stitch from a chart onto blank fabric, counting squares to place each stitch. That's different from stamped cross-stitch, where the design is pre-printed on the fabric and you just stitch over the marks. Counted is more flexible — any chart works on any suitable fabric — and it's the format used for photo patterns and virtually all detailed designs.
The stitch itself is a small "X": two diagonal stitches crossing in one square of the fabric. Repeat that X thousands of times in the right colors and a picture appears. That's the whole craft.
The supplies you need to start
- Aida fabric — a stiff, evenly-woven cotton with clear holes. Start with 14-count (14 stitches per inch); it's the most common and forgiving.
- DMC stranded cotton floss — the colors your pattern calls for. Each 8-meter skein has six easily-separated strands.
- A tapestry needle — blunt-tipped so it slides between threads. Size 24 suits 14-count aida.
- An embroidery hoop or frame — keeps the fabric taut for even stitches (optional but recommended).
- Small sharp scissors and a printed pattern with its color key.
That's it — no machine, no expensive kit. A first project can cost under $20.
How many strands and which fabric count?
DMC floss comes as six strands twisted together; you separate off the number you need. For a full cross-stitch:
| Aida count | Stitches / inch | Strands | Needle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11-count | 11 | 3 | size 22–24 |
| 14-count | 14 | 2 | size 24 |
| 16-count | 16 | 2 | size 26 |
| 18-count | 18 | 1–2 | size 26–28 |
Higher counts mean smaller stitches and finer detail, but they're harder on the eyes. For a first piece, 14-count with 2 strands is the comfortable default. Our fabric count guide goes deeper.
Preparing your fabric and floss
Cut your aida a few inches larger than the finished design on every side, so there's room for a hoop and framing. Fold it in quarters and lightly crease to find the center — that's where you'll start. Optionally whip-stitch or tape the raw edges so they don't fray.
To prepare floss, cut a length about 18 inches (longer tangles and frays), then gently pull out the number of strands you need one at a time and recombine them. This "stripping" makes the thread lie flatter and cover better.
Starting without a knot
Cross-stitchers avoid knots (they create bumps and can pull through). The easiest no-knot start is the loop method: use one doubled strand, and when you make your first stitch, pass the needle through the loop on the back to anchor it. To end a thread, run the needle under a few finished stitches on the back and snip. Neat backs come with practice — nobody's first back is tidy.
Your first project
Start small and high-contrast so progress is visible: a simple motif, a short word, or a bold photo converted to a modest size. Begin at the center, work one color or one 10×10 block at a time, and keep the pattern key beside you. Once you can read a chart and make a clean X, you can stitch anything — including a portrait from your own photo.
Frequently asked questions
Is counted cross-stitch hard for beginners?
No — it's one of the most beginner-friendly needlecrafts. There's essentially one stitch to learn (an X), and everything else is counting from a chart. Start with 14-count aida and a simple, high-contrast design.
What fabric should a beginner use?
14-count aida. It has clearly visible holes, is stiff enough to stitch without a hoop, and is the most widely available. Move to finer 16 or 18-count once you're comfortable.
How many strands of floss do beginners use?
Two strands of DMC floss for full cross-stitches on 14 or 16-count aida. Use three on 11-count and one to two on 18-count. Backstitch outlines usually use a single strand.
What's the difference between counted and stamped cross-stitch?
Counted cross-stitch is worked from a chart onto blank fabric by counting squares. Stamped cross-stitch has the design pre-printed on the fabric. Photo patterns and detailed designs use the counted format.