The Angels Nook

High quality Cross Stitch, Needlepoint, Needlework Kits, Rubber Stamps, Charts, Patterns and More Crafts in a variety of designs

Tuesday, August 09, 2005

Want to change things a bit?

Lets say you have a design thats stitched on 18 count fabric but now you want to change things a bit and stitch it on 14 count fabric. Well, how much fabric will I need? What size will the design now become? Figuring out these answers are really pretty simple. Follow along below and you will be able to change any design.

1) Count the number of horizontal squares of the design. For example, let’s say there are 175 squares

2) Divide the number of squares by the fabric count you wish to use. The result it the horizontal size of the design in inches. Example: 175 squares ÷ 14 count fabric = 12.5 inches

3) Add at least 4 inches of fabric to the design size to allow for framing or finishing. This number is the horizontal size of your fabric. Example: 12.5 inches + 4 inches = 16.5 inches

4) Count the number of vertical squares of the design. Example: let’s say there are 259 squares

5) Divide the number of squares by the fabric count to find out the vertical size of the design. Example: 259 squares ÷ 14 count fabric = 18.5 inches

6) Add at least 4 inches to the fabric size for framing or finishing. Example: 18.5 inches + 4 inches = 22.5 inches

In the example above, the finished size of your design would be 12.5 x 18.5 inches. The size of the fabric you will need would be 16.5 x 22.5 inches. On certain fabrics you may want to adjust the number of strands you use for stitching. The typical number of strands used on 14 count fabric is two. By increasing or decreasing the number of strands, you can create the finished effect you desire. Also note that changing the fabric count of your design will affect the amount of thread you will need, so make sure you have enough.

Stitch any one of the 18 count fabric kits we have and then later work it up on 14 count fabric. Changing things can be fun!!