Vous voulez en savoir plus sur 14 vs 16 vs 18 Count Aida: Which Should You Choose? ?
I still remember my first cross stitch project. I bought a kit with 14 count Aida because it was the only one in the shop. The design was a simple heart, and it turned out fine. But when I tried a more detailed pattern on the same fabric, the stitches looked cramped. That's when I realized the count matters. A lot.
If you've ever stood in a craft store, staring at bolts of Aida in different counts, you're not alone. The numbers 14, 16, and 18 refer to the number of squares per inch. The higher the count, the smaller the stitches. But which one should you use? I've spent years stitching on all three, and I'll share my experience so you can choose confidently.
Materials and Tools
Before we dive in, here's what you'll need to follow along or test for yourself:
- Aida fabric in 14, 16, and 18 count (I used DMC Charles Craft Gold Standard in white, item codes: 14 count – GD1436-6750, 16 count – GD1636-6750, 18 count – GD1836-6750)
- Tapestry needles size 24 (for 14 count), 26 (for 16 and 18 count) – I use John James needles, about €3.50 for a pack of 6
- DMC embroidery floss in a few colors (I used DMC 310 black, DMC 666 red, DMC 704 green)
- Small embroidery scissors (I love the DMC soft grip, around €8)
- Embroidery hoop 15 cm (6 inches) – I prefer wooden hoops from Nurge
- A ruler or tape measure
- A calculator (or your phone)
- Good lighting (I use a daylight lamp from Daylight Company, about €45)
Step 1: Understand What Count Means
Aida count is simply the number of squares per inch. On 14 count, you get 14 squares in one inch. On 16 count, 16 squares. On 18 count, 18 squares. This affects the size of your finished project and the detail you can achieve. The higher the count, the smaller the stitches, so your project will be smaller overall if you use the same pattern. For example, a design that is 100 stitches wide will measure about 18.1 cm (7.1 inches) on 14 count, 15.9 cm (6.25 inches) on 16 count, and 14.1 cm (5.6 inches) on 18 count. I measured this myself with a ruler on each fabric [3]. The difference is noticeable. Also, the holes in the fabric get smaller as the count increases, so you need thinner needles. DMC recommends size 24 tapestry needles for 14 count, and size 26 for 16 and 18 count [1].
Pro tip: If you're a beginner, start with 14 count. The holes are bigger, so it's easier to see where your needle goes. Trust me, your eyes will thank you.
Step 2: Test Stitch Size and Coverage
When you stitch on different counts, the coverage of your floss changes. On 14 count, two strands of DMC floss give good coverage. On 16 count, two strands still work but might look a bit thin. On 18 count, you might want to use two strands for a lighter look or three strands for fuller coverage. I did a test with DMC 310 black on all three counts. On 14 count, two strands covered well. On 18 count, two strands left some fabric showing, so I switched to three strands. The difference is subtle but real. The manufacturer's spec sheet for DMC floss says each strand is about 0.5 mm thick [2]. So on 18 count, where the squares are smaller, you need more strands to fill the space. I spent about 2 hours stitching small samples to compare. It was worth it.
Pro tip: Always stitch a small sample on scrap Aida before starting a big project. It saves you from ripping out stitches later. I learned that the hard way.
Step 3: Calculate Fabric Size for Your Pattern
Before you buy fabric, you need to know how big your finished piece will be. Here's the formula: divide the number of stitches by the count, then add extra for margins. For example, if your pattern is 150 stitches wide and 100 stitches high, on 14 count: 150 ÷ 14 = 10.7 inches (27.2 cm) wide, 100 ÷ 14 = 7.1 inches (18.1 cm) high. Add at least 5 cm (2 inches) on each side for framing or finishing. So you'd need a piece at least 37.2 cm x 28.1 cm. On 16 count: 150 ÷ 16 = 9.4 inches (23.8 cm), 100 ÷ 16 = 6.25 inches (15.9 cm). On 18 count: 150 ÷ 18 = 8.3 inches (21.2 cm), 100 ÷ 18 = 5.6 inches (14.1 cm). I always add 10 cm (4 inches) total to be safe. I keep a small calculator in my stitching bag. It's a lifesaver.
Pro tip: If you're short on fabric, you can stitch closer to the edge, but leave at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) for framing. Otherwise, your work might unravel.
Step 4: Consider the Level of Detail
Higher count Aida allows for finer detail because each stitch is smaller. If your pattern has a lot of shading or intricate details, 18 count will make it look sharper. But it's also harder to stitch because the holes are tiny. I have to use a magnifier for 18 count. On the other hand, 14 count is more forgiving for simple designs or when you're in a hurry. I once tried to stitch a detailed portrait on 14 count, and it looked blocky. I was so frustrated that I frogged the whole thing and started over on 18 count. That was a lesson learned. Now I match the count to the pattern: 14 for large, simple designs; 16 for medium detail; 18 for fine detail. The DMC website has a helpful chart that shows recommended counts for different project types [1].
Pro tip: If you're unsure, go with 16 count. It's a happy medium. It's my go-to for most projects.
Step 5: Think About Your Eyes and Comfort
Stitching on 18 count can be tiring for your eyes, especially if you don't have good lighting. I have to take more breaks when I use 18 count. On 14 count, I can stitch for hours without strain. So if you have vision issues or want a relaxing stitch, choose a lower count. Also, the needle size matters: using a too-big needle on 18 count will stretch the holes. I use John James size 26 for 16 and 18 count, and size 24 for 14 count. The manufacturer's spec sheet for John James needles lists the sizes and recommended fabrics [2]. I also find that using a hoop or frame keeps the fabric taut, which makes stitching easier on any count. I use a 15 cm hoop for small projects and a 20 cm hoop for larger ones.
Pro tip: Take breaks every 30 minutes to rest your eyes. I set a timer. It helps.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between 14, 16, and 18 count Aida comes down to your project, your eyes, and your patience. There's no wrong choice—only what works for you. I keep all three counts in my stash because different projects call for different fabrics. Want to try it yourself? Grab a small piece of each count and stitch a simple motif. You'll quickly feel the difference. Which count do you reach for most? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Sources
- [1] DMC website – Aida fabric guide and needle recommendations. https://www.dmc.com
- [2] Manufacturer spec sheet – DMC floss thickness and John James needle sizes. https://www.johnjamesneedles.com
- [3] Personal testing – measurements and strand coverage tests conducted by me.
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