Floss Calculator
Estimate how many skeins of embroidery floss you need for your cross-stitch project.
Results
These are estimates. Actual thread usage varies based on stitching tension, waste from starting/stopping, and backstitching. We recommend buying 10-15% extra to be safe.
How This Calculator Works
A standard cross-stitch (an X) on 14-count Aida uses approximately 1.3 inches of thread per stitch when worked with 2 strands. This varies by fabric count — larger count means larger stitches and more thread per stitch.
A standard DMC skein contains 8 meters (8.7 yards / 315 inches) of 6-strand floss. When you pull 2 strands, you get 315 inches of usable 2-strand thread from one skein.
The calculator multiplies your stitch count by thread-per-stitch, adjusts for strand count, divides by skein length, and adds a 15% waste allowance for starts, stops, and tails.
Need to find thread equivalents across brands? Search our color database or browse all DMC colors by family.