18 count Aida
18-count Aida has 18 stitches per inch. Use one strand for a light, textured look or two for full coverage and a size 26 tapestry needle. It suits small, detailed pieces: ornaments, portraits and photo charts.
How big on 18-count?
5.6 × 5.6 in (14.1 × 14.1 cm)
Add 3 in (7.5 cm) on each side for the fabric to cut, or use the full cross stitch calculator.
18-count Aida size chart
| Stitches | Inches | Centimetres |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 1.7 | 4.2 |
| 50 | 2.8 | 7.1 |
| 80 | 4.4 | 11.3 |
| 100 | 5.6 | 14.1 |
| 150 | 8.3 | 21.2 |
| 200 | 11.1 | 28.2 |
What 18-count looks like
Expect fine stitches that blend into smooth gradients. A design on 18-count is about 22% smaller than on 14-count and matches 36-count linen over two.
Floss, needle and hoop
Stitch with one strand for a light, textured look or two for full coverage of DMC stranded cotton and a size 26 tapestry needle (see the needle size chart). Pick a hoop a little larger than the design’s diagonal, or a scroll frame for anything over about 12 inches.
Common sizes
Other Aida counts
18-count Aida questions
What does 18-count Aida mean?
18-count Aida has 18 squares per inch in each direction, so every cross stitch is 1/18 inch (1.4 mm) across.
How many strands for 18-count Aida?
Use one strand for a light, textured look or two for full coverage.
What needle for 18-count Aida?
A size 26 tapestry needle; size 24 also works.
How big is a 100-stitch design on 18-count Aida?
5.56 inches (14.1 cm). Divide any stitch count by 18 to get inches.