Ready to get stitching? Let’s start with the basics – needles. Like any other form of surface embroidery, cross stitch makes no exception, using the right needles is essential! In this article, we’ll explore all about the different cross-stitch needles, when to use them, and why.
If you’re new to cross-stitch, check out my article on everything you need to know about cross-stitch to learn about all the other aspects of the craft.
Disclaimer: This post might contain some affiliate links, you can find my full Disclosure Policy here.
What Needle to Use for Cross Stitch?
Tapestry needles are the needles used for cross-stitch embroidery. They have a blunt tip, a large eye, and are generally used on fabrics with open weaves, such as Aida.
The point of a tapestry needle is not sharp, as it is meant to prevent the accidental piercing or splitting of the threads in the fabric. The large eye also helps to reduce friction between the thread and material when stitching, decreasing damage.
Tapestry Needle Sizes
Tapestry needles come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 18 to 28. The bigger the number, the finer the needle. The eye of the needle will also get smaller as the number increases.
Cross Stitch Needle Size Chart
Choosing the right size of needle is essential, and depends on the fabric you will be stitching on. If the needle is too big for the fabric, it will stretch the grid and create a gap that can’t be easily concealed with floss.
Use the size chart below to help you choose the right needle size. Note that sizes may differ between manufacturers.
| Aida Fabric | Needle Size |
| 6 count | 18 |
| 10 count | 22 |
| 14 count | 24 |
| 16 count | 26 |
| 18 count | 28 |
| 20 count | 24 petites |
| 22 count | 26 petites |
| 24 count | 28 petites |
Fabric Count: Measures the fabric’s density. The higher the fabric’s count, the smaller the needle you’ll need.
Best Needles for Cross Stitch
Need needles for your project? Here are some of the best brands on the market.
Bohin
Bohin needles – Bohin is a leading needles manufacturer maintaining a level of perfection since 1833.
DMC
DMC needles – DMC has been developing award-winning fine threads for makers since 1746. They also offer a good selection of tapestry needles.
Clover
Clover needles – Clover offers a wide range of knitting, sewing, patchwork, and quilting tools that appeal to everyone from beginners to experts.
John James
John James needles – John James is a British company famous worldwide for the manufacture of specialized hand-sewing needles and tools.
Cross Stitch Needles FAQ’s
Tapestry needles are the best needles for cross-stitch embroidery. They have a blunt tip, a large eye, and are generally used on fabrics with open weaves, such as Aida.
The size of the needle depends on the fabric you will be stitching on. The most common needle sizes are 24 (for 14 count Aida), 26 (for 16 count Aida) and 28 (for 18 count Aida).
Download Free Patterns
If you want to give cross-stitch a chance, remember that you can download free patterns from the Free Pattern Library. To access it just fill out the form below and I will send you an email with your password.
More Cross-Stitch Articles You’ll Love
- What is Cross Stitch? Everything You Need to Know
- 100 Cross Stitch Terms Made Easy
- How to Read a Cross Stitch Chart
- Hand Embroidery Transfer Pens the Complete Guide
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