The comments about the stitch calculator made me laugh. Any old calculator will do. It doesn’t have to be a “stitch calculator”, though the oline stitch calculators are much easier to use. Just a few months ago, I had no idea about a “stitch calculator” so if a pattern said it was 200 W x 150 H stitches, and I wanted to use 32 count linen, I simply did the math 200 / 32 = 6.25 and I’m going over 2 squares so 2 x 6.25 = 12.5″ for the width of the stitching design, add 3″ on each side and I need 18.5″ wide for the fabric. Height would be 150 / 32 = 4.69 x 2 = 9.375 + 3″ on both sides = 15.375 or 15-1/2″.
Most charts do tell you the size fabric needed UNLESS you want to use a different count. A 200 x 200 stitch count piece done on 40 count linen would need to be done on a 16 x 16 piece of fabric. That same piece done on 28 count linen needs to be 20.5 x 20.5. I check and double check the fabric size before starting. That’s all still a bit scary for me but I’m learning to trust the numbers.
Another thing I’ve learned is that no all linen is created equally.
I’m not sure how much you can see in these photos, especially for comparing but the above fabric is 32 count by Wichelt. I think you can see how thin some of the fibers are. It’s almost gauzy feeling. If I had seen this fabric in person, I would not have bought it. I have plenty of Wichelt linen and haven’t noticed any being quite as open and thick/thin as this one is.
The above fabric is 30 count by Access Commodities and it’s much more even and the quality feels 100% better. This one is much easier to stitch on since the holes are more evenly spaced.
It’s frustrating having to order without seeing and hope what I get is something I’ll like.
Teri says
Does anyone know if you can buy cross stitch linen at Joanns, hobby lobby or Michaels. I have no stitchery store near me….
Judy Laquidara says
Hobby Lobby has a few packages online but I haven’t been in the store in forever so I have no idea but I think you’re going to get a much better selection at a place like 123stitch.com or calling a local needle work shop and having them send it to you.
I’ve ordered all mine online and have been happy with it except that one piece.
Julie says
JoAnn’s does carry a small amount. I’ve not used it.
Terri says
I just started my first linen piece and not sure I’m liking it. It’s
Wichelt too. So I’ve ordered a different brand. I’m agree it’s so hard not being able to touch it. Glad to hear you like the Access Commodities, I saw a color in that I like so it’ll go on my wishlist.
Judy Laquidara says
I have other Wichelt linen that I like but if you don’t like yours either, that’s not good.