Guide | Photos2Stitch

For the best cross-stitch designs, it's essential to use clear photos with good colour and contrast. If your photo has heavy shadows, they will appear in your design. While we can brighten and sharpen images, the best results come from high-quality photos.

14, 16 ot 18 count Aida?

Aida fabric comes in different counts, which refer to the number of holes per linear inch. For instance, 14-count Aida has 14 holes per inch. The choice between 14, 16, or 18-count Aida depends on the thickness of the thread and the level of detail you desire. Higher counts have more stitches per inch. For beginners, 14 or 16-count Aida is generally recommended.

Aida fabric tends to fray and should be hemmed before use. It should not be laundered before crafting and may shrink slightly after washing. Hand washing your finished cross-stitch piece enhances its appearance since Aida fabric naturally contracts in areas where stitching has occurred.

What Size?

Larger charts tend to offer more stitches and better detail in the finished design. We recommend at least a 10 x 8-inch design for optimal detail (larger if possible). If you’re constrained by size—like fitting an existing frame—consider using a higher fabric count to maintain detail. Conversely, if you prefer a lower thread count, go for a larger design to compensate.

Also, consider the dimensions of the original photo. We aim to avoid stretching or distorting the image. For example, a square photo might need cropping (top, bottom, or both) to fit a 10 x 6-inch design. Be sure to tell us if you want to keep the entire photo or focus on a particular subject.

Thread and Colours?

We use DMC thread, which consists of six easily separable strands. Before stitching, you’ll split them into three sets of two strands. DMC threads are made from high-quality long-staple cotton, mercerized twice for extra sheen. The dyes are carefully selected to resist fading from washing or light exposure.

With 447 thread colors available in the DMC range, compared to the millions in a photograph, we optimize your design with about 40-60 colors for the best balance of detail and quality.

Detail

The level of detail in your cross-stitch design depends on two main factors:

The size of the chart – a larger chart contains more stitches.
The Aida fabric count – higher counts mean more stitches per inch.

For example, a 14-count Aida fabric offers 196 stitches per square inch, while an 18-count fabric provides 324 stitches per square inch—65% more stitches!

Of course, more stitches means more work! Refer to our size recommendations for guidance.

Expert Advice

If you're unsure about any of the above or need assistance, our experts at Photos2Stitch are here to help you get the best results from your photos.

Contact us at: Tel: 020 8393 6943

Email: info@photos2stitch.co.uk

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PHOTO

Choosing Your Photo