There are a wide variety of fabrics suitable for cross stitching fabrics. Each fabric type is set apart from the others based on its texture, sheen, and fiber count. Although they all have their pros and cons, there are a select few that remain amongst the favorites of cross stitchers around the world.
The Aida, Linen, and Evenweave fabric types remain the top sellers for cross-stitching fabrics. From a coarse texture with an open weave to smooth and sturdy, it is understandable why so many have trouble choosing their favorite amongst these three cross-stitch fabric types!
Whether you are just starting out or you’ve been a cross stitcher for years now, it never hurts to examine the different fabrics available. Check out our breakdown of the most common cross-stitching fabrics and their benefits:
Aida Cross Stitch Fabric
Although many seasoned cross-stitchers love Aida, it is most commonly sought after by beginners for its low fabric count that makes stitching easier. Aida comes in a variety of fabric counts, but the most common are 14 count, 16 count, and even 18 count. This fabric is known for its rough heavy-duty texture that many enjoy for cross-stitching projects.
One of our favorite Aida fabrics is the Old Library Marble Cross Stitch Fabric! This tan fabric has a dark brown marbling effect that gives off the essence of an old-time bookstore. Our Smokey Blue Hand Dyed Cross Stitch Fabric is also a fan favorite in the Aida style.
Linen Cross Stitch Fabric
Cross-stitchers often testify that they have a love-hate relationship with linen as a cross-stitching fabric. This fabric comes in fabric counts of 28, 32, 36, and 40 and is made of a softer material, unlike the rest. As stated by MasterClass, “Linen is an extremely strong, lightweight fabric made from the flax plant, part of the genus Linum in the family Linaceae.”
The nature of the fabric can make linen a bit more difficult for cross stitching as it is known for having imperfections. Therefore, it is usually reserved for experienced stitchers who enjoy the softer texture of the fabric. Check out our Stormy Grey Hand Dyed Cross Stitch Fabric as well as our Magical Clouds Hand Dyed Cross Stitch Fabric in linen.
Evenweave Cross Stitch Fabric
The term “Evenweave” refers to the consistent fabric count, which is known for making cross-stitching a much easier feat. While using Evenweave, you don’t have to worry about maneuvering around flaws in the fabric or misaligned holes.
You can enjoy Evenweave at 28, 32, and even 36 fabric counts. Although this type of fabric comes in higher fabric counts than Aida, the consistency of the fabric makes it a great option for beginners. Check out our top Evenweave favorites in the patterns of Blue Classic Snowflakes and Confetti!
Our Suggestion
If you are just starting out as a cross stitcher, we recommend you begin with an Aida or even an Evenweave cross-stitching fabric. The low fabric counts will help you achieve a lovely end product, and you won’t have to deal with the frustration of irregularities within the fabric.
Of course, if you are up for the challenge, you could always dive in headfirst and try a softer linen design. Here at Fabric Flair, we make the decision easy since most of our lovely fabric designs come in all three fabric options!