Embroidery canvas Aida. Choosing a canvas: different types and uses, plus a cheat sheet for calculating the number of crosses Size and types of canvas

Good day to all lovers of cross stitch! IN Lately I mostly embroider either from ready-made kits, or I select the canvas myself - by eye. Therefore, for a long time the question did not arise for me -. But recently I had to greatly improve my theoretical knowledge in this area.

In one of the letters that periodically come to my email asking for help deciphering, there was a difficulty: the manufacturer did not indicate the count of the canvas included in the set. This made it difficult to figure out how many folds of thread to stitch the design. We figured out the problem, but the topic for the post was quite urgent. I think it will be useful for beginners in embroidery to read general information, and experienced embroiderers will find my tablets, which I made as a cheat sheet, useful. 😉

What is canvas count

To begin with, of course, let's clarify the terminology. – this is the size of the canvas expressed in numerical value. It is usually designated by the letters CT and a number before or after them.

It is this number that will tell everything about the final result of the embroidery. Because the larger the count (i.e. LESS figure), those bigger size it will be a cross. On the canvas of a large count - 9, 11 - it will not be possible to carry out well-designed designs.

In another article I thought about “Aida” or “uniform”. Don't forget to stay tuned to my embroidery blog. 😉

Even crosses to everyone!

CANVAS

Size and types of canvas

Does the size and type of canvas matter when embroidering? Of course it does! The size and type of canvas you choose depends on the size of the painting itself, the density of the embroidery, and, of course, the appearance of the painting itself. Some embroiderers like the crosses to lie tightly and the canvas not to show through, while others like lighter, “openwork” embroidery. What canvas size should I choose? Here are examples of only the most commonly used embroidery fabrics and their sizes. But in fact, there are a great many different bases for embroidery, different colors and sizes, and it’s up to you to decide which canvas is most suitable for your embroidery.

For a beginner the best way canvas will do №14 (Aida 14). This canvas is quite large, and allows the embroiderer not to strain her eyes too much without any additional devices (magnifying glass, glasses). Many manufacturers recommend embroidering with double-fold thread even on this canvas. In this case, the embroidery turns out to be quite neat, “airy”, but the outline is slightly visible from under the crosses. And the picture itself turns out larger than if you embroidered on a smaller canvas.

Canvas No. 16. This canvas is well suited for craftswomen with good eyesight and already have some experience in embroidery. This canvas allows you to slightly reduce the size of the desired pattern, and the crosses will be denser than on Aida 14. It is also recommended to embroider on the 16th canvas using two threads.

Canvas No. 18. This is already a very small outline and in some cases requires additional devices (magnifying glass, glasses) in order not to strain your eyesight. On the 18th canvas you can embroider with one thread, but this, again, depends on how dense the embroidery you like. Aida 18 canvas significantly reduces the size of the resulting work and is suitable for creating realistic embroidered pictures.

Determining the size of canvas Aida:

18 - 72 cells per 10 cm.
16 - 60 cells by 10 cm.
14 - 55 cells by 10 cm.
11 - 44 cells by 10 cm.

The table shows the conversion of canvas cell sizes to the metric system and their characteristics:

"Linen". This is no longer a canvas with holes, but a fabric for embroidery with a uniform weave of thread. Such fabrics can be different sizes: from No. 22 (10 stitches per 1 cm) to No. 36 (the higher the value, the smaller the size of the cells) and is produced by different manufacturers. The composition includes linen, cotton and mixed fabrics. There are different names for fabrics with a uniform weave, for example: LUGANA, Linda, Bellana, Davosa, Evenweave, Murano etc. This fabric is best suited for embroidering tapestries ( tapestry stitch or petit point). The embroidery is very small, elegant and creates the effect of a real painting. Ideal for embroidering napkins, tablecloths, towels...

Stramin(Stramin) - rigid mesh with large gaps. Stramin comes in different sizes, but the large size is most often used for embroidering panels, pillows, and tapestry blankets. Such products are embroidered in volume woolen threads, or regular floss in several folds.

And finally - plastic canvas(plastic) - a synthetic mesh with holes, the threads of which are tightly connected to each other. Comes in different sizes and shades, used mainly for souvenirs, cards, Christmas tree decorations, because When cutting contours, such a canvas does not tend to “crumble” or unravel.

Aida
The most popular fabric for counted cross stitch. It is a 100% cotton dense fabric with a 4x4 weave of threads, forming clearly defined squares. Horizontal and vertical threads in “squares” are intertwined with each other, which gives additional rigidity to the fabric. Mainly used for cross stitch, but can also be used for other types of counted embroidery.
Available in different densities and different colors, including lurex.

The most popular types of Aida canvas- Aida-14 (55 cells per 10 cm), Aida-16 (63 cells per 10 cm), Aida-18 (71 cells per 10 cm).

Hardanger
It is a 100% cotton fabric, dense to the touch, with a 2x2 thread weave, density 22 count (87 cells per 10 cm).
The threads do not intertwine with each other (as in Hades), so there are no such clearly defined squares. Cross-stitching on it is not very convenient; it is recommended to use it for embroidery using counted satin stitch, blackwork, petit-point, etc.

Even Weave Canvas
Unlike Aida, the uniform weave canvas does not have clearly defined “squares”, which makes it more difficult to embroider on it (you have to count the threads while working), but the result is better, since the “empty” (without embroidery) part of the work represents is a uniform canvas, without visible squares and holes.
On a canvas of uniform weave, a cross is usually embroidered through 2 threads (for one cross, 2 threads are counted horizontally and 2 vertically), in this case the number of crosses will be half the number of threads. For example, for Linda 27 the number of crosses in 10 cm will be 53.

Uniform weave canvas is available in different compositions- cotton (the most popular cotton canvas of uniform weave is Linda 27), cotton with synthetics (the most popular canvas is Lugana 25 and Murano 32), linen (the most popular canvas is Cashel Linen 28, Belfast 32, Edinburgh 36).

Just like Aida, uniform weave canvas is available in different colors - from white to black, including lurex.

Evenweave
The word "evenweave" has two meanings:
- any canvas of uniform weave; The phrases “cotton evenweave” - cotton canvas of uniform weave and “linen evenweave” - linen canvas of uniform weave are often used;
- Evenweave canvas, composition - 100% cotton, density 27 count. In fact, Evenweave and Linda canvas are practically complete analogues, only Evenweave has slightly thinner warp threads.
What exactly is meant can be understood from the context of the phrase.

What do the numbers after the canvas name mean?
The numbers after the name of the canvas indicate the number of “squares” (for Aida canvas) or threads (for evenweave canvas) per inch (2.54 cm). In English this figure is called "count", in Russian - "number".

To understand how many “squares” or threads there will be in 10 cm, you need to do simple calculations:
Divide the canvas number by 2.54 and multiply by 10.
For example: Aida-14 canvas produces (14 / 2.54) * 10 ~ 55 cells per 10 cm.

How to determine which Aida number evenweave corresponds to
It is enough to divide the evenweave canvas number by two. But because It is not always possible to select a uniform weave canvas that exactly matches the required aida number; you can take evenweave canvas that does not exactly match the aida number. For example, the Aida-14 canvas is very often replaced with Linda-27 (for example, Heritage does this - the same design can be completed with either Aida-14 or Linda-27).

How to cut canvas correctly

Any fabric, and canvas is no exception, has longitudinal and transverse threads and an edge! If you buy canvas by the meter, you will see this edge, it is located on both sides along the width of the canvas. In order to avoid distortion (violation of symmetry) of the embroidery during work and after washing, it is necessary to always cut out and place the embroidery along the shared thread no matter whether the picture is horizontal or vertical!

Almost all cotton fabrics shrink along the grain after washing. That’s why you need to cut the canvas in such a way that your work remains symmetrical and not elongated in height due to the incorrect placement of the grain of the canvas. When embroidering with an empty background, this is not so critical, because... in such works such deformation will not be as noticeable as in works with a completely sewn background.

Any work after washing needs to be decorated - stretched onto a backing before being tucked into the frame. In this case The right way Cutting out the canvas before starting embroidery will greatly facilitate the alignment procedure when stretching the embroidery.

In order to determine the direction of the threads in an already cut (finished) canvas without an edge, just pull it horizontally and vertically. The longitudinal thread cannot be stretched, but the transverse thread will stretch a little, even if it is very starched.

According to the rules, it is recommended to leave it on allowances at least 3 cm of free canvas! This is necessary for better stretching of the embroidery onto the backing cardboard. Don’t forget, if your work is done with an empty background, then you don’t need to forget how much space you want to leave from the drawing itself to the mat (or frame, if you want to design the work without a mat).

Canvas marking

On most diagrams, one symbol (icon) corresponds to one square of the canvas (one cross), so as not to lose count and not confuse the placement of the crosses while working, it is recommended to draw a table of squares on the canvas. Each square should have 10 x 10 crosses. Determine the center of your work, divide it crosswise horizontally and vertically, and start counting the table layout from the center. You can start marking from the corner, whichever is more convenient for you. The table on the canvas must match the table on the diagram. It is better to mark with a simple pencil, because Such lines can be easily removed by washing with ordinary toilet soap. You can use special markers for marking. It is better to mark on a black canvas with a white pencil or a special marker for dark canvas.

You can embroider with counted cross stitch or tapestry stitch on any fabric with the same number of threads in height and width. As a rule, for embroidery we use plain fabrics with a smooth surface. Although there are no strict restrictions. It is quite possible that someone will want to embroider a pattern on a checkered tablecloth or decorate a denim suit or a festive blouse with embroidery.

Nowadays there are all kinds of canvas for needlework. These include the well-known Aida, overlay canvas, rigid strapin, carpet canvas, plastic canvas, evenweave fabric. There are also quite exotic materials for embroidery: perforated paper (for example, for Christmas tree decorations), silk muslin (in miniature works).

The basis for embroidery is available in a variety of colors: white, ivory, steel gray, Christmas red, orange, khaki, black, etc. Unfortunately, the choice in handicraft stores is often not so extensive and sometimes you have to order the canvas of the desired color and size from online stores.

How to dye fabric yourself, you can read

Aida
The most famous type of canvas is Aida. Aida is the name of 100% cotton fabric from the German company Zweigart (German fabric itself is very expensive and it is better to purchase Hungarian canvas manufactured under license from Zweigart). This canvas has a weave of 4 longitudinal and 4 transverse threads with pronounced squares (cells) and places for inserting a needle. It is suitable for both experienced embroiderers and beginners.

Aida was invented in the 1890s specifically for counted cross stitch. Recently, the name Aida has become a common noun and, regardless of the manufacturer, fabric with such weaving is called Aida.

As a result, the higher the number after the name Hades, the more cells are located in 1 cm, the smaller the cells, and, accordingly, the smaller the cross will be as a result.
In addition to them, there are also rarely used large Aida 8 and small Aida 20, Aida 22.

An analogue of Aida is Belarusian canvas , only it is soft (as if it is not starched). It can be used for embroidering napkins, tablecloths, etc.

Overlay canvas - this is a fabric that is sewn onto a material that does not have clear cells for crosses, and after finishing the work, the threads of the canvas are pulled out. Previously, they only embroidered on this kind of canvas.

Now on sale there is a so-called dissolvable canvas , which after completion of work is removed by dissolving in water.

Linen fabric (linen)

Linen fabric can be called a type of fabric with a uniform weave of threads. The main difference is that the threads linen fabric have uneven thickness, resulting in thickening and thinning of threads on the fabric. Linen fabric is also most often embroidered using two threads. They also have their own names and numbers depending on the number of weaves per 1 inch.

Hardanger Canvas(approximately 22 cells per inch) also applies. The finished embroidery looks like a drawn drawing due to the small crosses, like a dot. This canvas was invented in Norway (Hardanger - a fjord in southwestern Norway) about 100 years ago.
Example: a pattern of 50x50 crosses on Aida 14 canvas will take approximately 9x9 cm of fabric, on Aida 18 - 7x7 cm, and on Hardanger canvas 5.8x5.8 cm.

Let's say the size of the finished work is 150x200 crosses, and Aida18 canvas is used for embroidery. As we remember, such a canvas has 18 crosses per inch or 70 crosses per 10 cm. Thus, the total embroidery size will be 21.5x28.5 cm, now add 12 cm to the horizontal and vertical size (margin for mat) and 2 cm (for processing edges). In total, a piece of fabric measuring 35.5x42.5 cm is required. Of course, these are only preliminary calculations; the indentation for the mat can be made smaller and the edges coated with glue.

Aida - This is perhaps one of the most popular types of canvas among embroiderers! This is a well-known fabric with “holes” (blocks - blockweave), on which it is very convenient to count crosses and, accordingly, embroider.

Aida canvas consists mainly of 100% cotton, rarely with the addition of metallized threads (Lurex) or viscose. It's great to embroider New Year's scenes on canvas with metallic threads! Creates a snow shimmering effect)

In handicraft stores you will find Aida in different colors. The color palette is very rich: traditional white, beige, pink, red, crimson, green, blue, black and that’s not all!

Along with uniformly dyed fabrics, there are also so-called vintage ones. The main difference is that the fabric is colored unevenly, with streaks and peculiar patterns.

And it should be noted that it is very popular among needlewomen, because it gives the work special charm, makes it more interesting and significantly saves time on embroidering the background!

The Aida canvas with a printed pattern looks like this:

You can find Aida with marked marking lines (10x10 squares), which are removed when washed in cold water.

Aida canvas can be soft to the touch and hard, as if starched. Here, each embroiderer adheres to her preferences: on a soft one it is better to embroider using a hoop, on a hard one you can do without them, the crosses will also turn out beautiful and even.

Aida is good primarily because it has a uniform structure that forms distinct squares and holes in the corners of these squares, making it easier to pass the needle and the entire embroidery process.

You can embroider on Aida canvas with threads in one or several folds. Here everything depends on the chosen subject and the personal preferences of the embroiderer. For example, on Aida 14 canvas they usually embroider floss in 2 folds, but if you like the embroidery to be denser and more voluminous, embroider in 3 folds.

Aida canvas numbers

Canvas count- this is the number of squares (cells) per 1 inch of fabric (1 inch = 2.54 cm).

Aida 10 - (39.5 cells per 10 cm)
Aida 11 - (43.5 cells per 10 cm)
Aida 14 - (55 cells per 10 cm)
Aida 16 - (63 cells per 10 cm)
Aida 18 - (71 cells per 10 cm).

The listed numbers of Aida canvas are the most popular among beginners and experienced embroiderers. Aida No. 10, No. 11 and No. 14 are considered large canvas, Aida No. 16 and Aida No. 18 are considered small.

On canvas No. 14 and No. 16, floss is usually embroidered in two folds with a needle No. 24. On canvas No. 18, use 1-ply thread and thinner needles.

Aida fabric composition:

Aida 8 - 100% cotton
Aida 14 – 100% cotton
Aida 16 -100% cotton
Lurex – Aida 14 – 93% cotton 7% metallic
Lurex – Aida 18 – 93% cotton 10% metallic
Fine Aida 18 – 100% cotton
Pearl Aida 11 – 100% cotton
Rustico Aida 14- 51% cotton 34% rayon 15% linen
Rustico Aida 16 – 44% cotton 39% rayon 17% linen
Rustico Aida 18 – 44% cotton 39% rayon 17% linen
Hearthstone Aida 14 – 60% cotton 40% linen
Yorkshire Aida 14 – 96% cotton 4% polyester
Herta 6 - 100% cotton
Hertarette 8 - 100% cotton
Wool Aida 11 – 100% wool
Wool Aida 14 -100% wool

1. Aida type canvas

The most famous and popular variety. In this type of canvas, the threads are intertwined in a special way, so as to form squares with holes in the corners, convenient for getting a needle into them (while it is more difficult to insert a needle into the dense center of the square, this helps to avoid mistakes). This canvas is very convenient for cross stitch, including for those who are just starting to learn this needlework.

2. Canvas of uniform weaving, or “uniform”

In a canvas of uniform weaving, the threads are intertwined in a classic way, but not too tightly - so that it is more convenient to count the crosses and get between the threads with a needle. “Uniform” canvas is often chosen by more experienced embroiderers: working with it requires more experience and a “trained” eye. Here you will have to “arrange” the crosses yourself (as a rule, these are 2 by 2 threads in length and width). But the result is more “lively” and realistic - especially if you use small canvas when embroidering a large pattern.

3. Stramin

Photo: youtube.com/D. K. Wright Construction

Stramin is a canvas characterized by increased rigidity. Stramin is similar to a rigid and sparse thread mesh. Most often used to create carpets and tapestries. Sometimes, due to its rigid structure, it can be used to make boxes or bags. More often, the size of the stramine cross is larger than that of other canvas, so they embroider on it with thicker threads (wool, acrylic). There is no need for a hoop or a machine here, the straightener holds its shape on its own. Craftsmen advise: to prevent the threads from clinging to the hard edges of the stramine while working, you should tie them with a hook with a thick soft thread or cover them with masking tape.

4. Plastic canvas

Photo: gingerbreadsnowflakes.com

Photo: pinterest.co.uk/sdooley13

This canvas looks like a rare plastic mesh and is distinguished by the fact that it holds its given shape well. It is plastic canvas that is good to use for volumetric or textured embroidery, for making souvenirs different shapes. When cutting, the edges of such a canvas will not crumble - so you can embroider and cut out any figures (remembering the perfect backside of the work). This canvas is also used for making boxes, bags, and so on (sometimes it is sold in a form specifically specified for the manufacture of a particular product).

5. Overlay canvas

Photo: weelittlestitchescrossstitch.blogspot.com

This canvas is designed to embroider even crosses on any fabric you need. This canvas is applied to the fabric and basted. After the pattern is embroidered, the canvas is carefully pulled out one thread at a time, while the embroidery remains intact and unharmed. With such a canvas it is convenient to decorate various products with embroidery elements.

6. Dissolvable canvas

Photo: essorille.livejournal.com

Invented not so long ago to replace the overhead pull-out canvas. Just like the previous version, this canvas is applied to the fabric, embroidery is done with its help, and then finished work soaked in warm water. Water dissolves the canvas and it disappears, but the design remains on the product.

What is canvas count

Photo: youtube.com/Carolyn Mazzeo

The count of the canvas is an important characteristic of it, expressing in a numerical value the size of the “cell” of the canvas. This characteristic is important because the size of each cross in your embroidery will depend on the value of the count, respectively, the thickness of the thread that is best used for embroidery, and ultimately, the size of the finished work.

The count is determined, as a rule, by the letters ST and numbers before or after the letters. The dependence of the size of the cross on the count value is the opposite: that is, the higher the count number, the smaller the cross you will get on a given canvas. For example: a canvas with a count of 9 will produce larger crosses than a canvas with a count of 11. The size of the canvas can be different and is characterized by the number of cells in 1 inch.

Cheat sheet: how many crosses are in the outline of different counts

Count of canvas "Aida": number of crosses in 10 cm

9 = 33 crosses

11 = 43 crosses

14 = 55 crosses

16 = 63 crosses

18 = 71 crosses

Count of "uniform" canvas: number of crosses (2 by 2 threads) per 10 cm

20 = 40 crosses

25 = 50 crosses

28 = 55 crosses

32 = 63 crosses