Trying to work out how many skeins to set aside for a cross-stitch project? Our free floss estimator gives you a starting point based on your stitch count, fabric and number of strands.
How to use the floss estimator
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Enter the number of stitches in the colour you want to estimate. If your pattern lists stitches by colour, use that colour’s count rather than the full design count.
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Select your fabric count and how many strands you’ll stitch with.
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Choose whether you’re stitching over one or two fabric threads.
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Select full cross stitch or tent / continental stitch.
The estimator shows an approximate skein amount and rounds up to suggest how many skeins to have available for that colour. Repeat the calculation for other colours as needed.
What does the estimate use?
For full cross stitches, the calculator uses a published general estimate based on about 17 lengths of 18-inch thread per skein, with 15 inches of each length treated as usable. It estimates the thread used per cross from the number of stitches per inch. You can read the cross-stitch floss table and the calculation behind it.
The tent / continental option uses a separate estimate of the diagonal thread path, with an allowance for extra thread use. Both methods are approximations, so the result is best used as a planning guide.
Example estimate
For 1,000 stitches in one colour on 18-count fabric, using two strands over one thread, the calculator estimates about 0.44 skeins for full cross stitch or 0.34 skeins for tent / continental stitch. In either case, the rounded-up suggestion is one skein.
Why might I use more or less floss?
Actual floss use varies. Stitch tension, how long you cut your working thread, how you start and finish, and how much thread you carry at the back can all affect the amount you use. Complex designs and scattered stitches may also use more thread than a simple area of solid stitching.
If you’re about to start a large project, consider the estimate alongside your own stitching habits and the pattern’s guidance. It’s sensible to have a little extra floss available in case your usage is higher than the estimate.