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Aida cloth for Cross Stitch and Blackwork
Most beginners like to use Aida cloth when they try counted cross stitch for the first time. This cotton fabric is a block woven cloth with distinct holes in between the warp and weft threads which make it easy to see where to put the needle. The most popular sized Aida is 14 count, and many manufactured kits will come with this fabric provided. For children 11 count Aida is recommended as the holes are a little further apart making each stitch a little larger. Even younger children may prefer to try Binca which is even easier to see. If you require a more delicate look then you can opt for 16 or 18 count. But if your eyes are anything like mine you may need the help of a magnifier to work on the smaller counts such as these. If you wish to change the size of Aida used for a design from what the designer suggests, then you can use my handy cross stitch calculator. I don't stock fabric myself but the following links will take you to an online provider. Using these links to purchase your Aida will help to keep www.needlework-tips-and-techniques.com online, as I will receive a small commission from each sale. I thank you in advance if you choose to help in this way. You can pick from the links below the video or visit the main page to choose from more options here.
Aida 11 count
Suitable for beginners, children or those that have difficulty seeing fabric with a higher count, 11 count is simple to stitch on. I normally recommend using three strands of floss if you are working cross stitch on this cloth.You can also get away with using a tapestry needle with a larger eye, such as a size 22 or 24, when working on Aida 11 count, which of course is a lot easier to thread!
Charles craft Classic Reserve cut pieces (12 inches x 18 inches) in Ivory and Antique White Wichelt 11 count - 43 inch width, multiples of 12 inches, cut lengths in 5 colors
Aida 14 countAida 14 count is the workhorse cloth. It is the most widely used of all the Aida variations. The size is comfortable to work on, without straining the eyes, whilst still giving a small enough stitch to produce a project that looks good.Two strands of floss are normally used for cross stitch on 14 count Aida cloth, with a single strand for backstitching. The best sized needles to use would be either a 24 or a 26 tapestry needle.
Aida 16 countNot so easily sourced, 16 count is a halfway house between the chunkier 14 and the more dainty 18 count. This is ideal if you have a frame you want to use for a particular project, that if stitched on 14 would be too big. Those extra two stitches in every inch might just make it small enough to fit.It gives a nice appearance to your work, without being too tiring on the eyes whilst stitching.
Aida 18 count
If you want something smaller, but don't want to move over to working on evenweave linen, then 18 count Aida cloth may fit the bill perfectly. I often use it when stitching greetings cards as I can then use a more detailed design but still have it fit into the aperture of a small card. Depending on the effect you desire, you can use either two or a single strand for cross stitch on 18 count. You are best using a size 26 or 28 tapestry needle so that you don't stretch the holes too big. Using this fabric is when you may find yourself needing the help given by magnifying lamps.
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