Stranded cotton arrives as six strands twisted together, but stitching with all six would give you a thick, ropey result on most fabrics. Knowing how many strands to separate out is one of those small skills that instantly makes your work look better. Here are clear starting points and the reasoning behind them.
Why strand count matters
The number of strands controls coverage, how completely your stitches hide the fabric beneath. Too few strands and the fabric peeks through, leaving a thin, patchy look. Too many and the stitches bunch up, distort the holes and look bulky. The aim is stitches that sit plump and flat, covering the fabric without straining it.
The right number depends mainly on your fabric count, because finer fabric needs finer thread.
Full cross stitches by fabric count
As a reliable starting point for full cross stitches:
- 11 count Aida: three strands
- 14 count Aida: two strands
- 16 count Aida: two strands
- 18 count Aida: one or two strands
- 28 count evenweave or linen (over two threads): two strands
Two strands on 14 count is the classic combination, and where most patterns and kits land. As the count goes up and the stitches get smaller, you generally drop the strand count so the thread still fits neatly. If you are unsure what count means, our guide on fabric count explains it.
Backstitch strands
Backstitch is the outline added last, and it usually wants to be finer than the cross stitches so it reads as a crisp line rather than a heavy border:
- If you stitched with two strands, use one strand for backstitch
- For a bolder, more graphic outline, use two strands
- Fine lettering and delicate detail almost always look best in a single strand
Our guide on backstitch covers the technique itself.
French knots and speciality stitches
French knots often look best with a little more body, so two strands is a common choice even on a fabric where you cross stitch with two. The number of times you wrap the thread also changes the knot's size. As always, a quick test on spare fabric tells you more than any rule.
The best test: stitch a few and look
Charts and guidelines are a starting point, not gospel. The surest way to get it right is to stitch a small patch and step back:
- If the fabric shows through between stitches, add a strand
- If the stitches look crowded or lumpy and distort the holes, drop a strand
- Aim for stitches that sit flat and full, covering the fabric with a smooth surface
Different brands and even different colours can behave slightly differently, so trust your eyes over the numbers.
Separate your strands before stitching
However many strands you use, always separate them fully and lay them back together before threading your needle. Pull the strands apart one at a time from the cut length, then recombine the number you want. This step, called stripping the thread, lets the strands lie flat and parallel instead of twisting around each other. The result is smoother, plumper stitches with noticeably better coverage.
Keeping your thread from twisting
Using the right number of strands also helps prevent tangling. Fewer, well-separated strands twist less than a thick bundle. Let your needle dangle now and then to unwind the thread, and keep your working length to around 45 to 50 centimetres. Our post on fixing common mistakes has more on taming tangles.
Plan your project with the right thread
Getting strand count right from the start means fewer surprises and better coverage across a whole design. When you plan a project in HobbyTub, the pattern tells you which colours you need so you can buy the right skeins before you begin. Browse the pattern catalogue to find your next design.
Two strands on 14 count for the stitching, one for the backstitch, and a quick test when in doubt. Learn that and your coverage will look even and professional every time.