Explore guide
Prepare a counted design for framing
Calculate the stitched rectangle, mounting allowance and visible window as separate dimensions.
Related lessons and tools
Calculate the stitched rectangle, mounting allowance and visible window as separate dimensions.
Before you start
Have the chart key, chart width and height, fabric thread count and threads crossed by each stitch. Keep floss strands separate from fabric threads.
How to do it
- How does fabric count change a stitched design’s size? — Compare one 140 × 98-stitch design at two fabric counts, without changing its chart.
- Add finishing margins without enlarging the stitched design — A 140 × 98-stitch design at 14 count over one measures 25.4 × 17.78 cm. A chosen 5 cm margin on every side needs 35.4 × 27.78 cm of fabric.
- Center a rectangular embroidery design — A 20 × 12 cm design centered on usable 30 × 24 cm fabric leaves 5 cm at left and right and 6 cm at top and bottom.
- Plan mounting and framing — Reserve enough ground for the selected attachment method and keep raised stitching clear of glazing. Choose a mounting method that supports the fabric evenly and can be reviewed later.
Try this example
A 20 × 15 cm design centered on 30 × 25 cm fabric leaves 5 cm per side. Check the actual mounting method before cutting; a frame’s visible opening does not describe its full fabric requirement.
Check your result
- Count from two independent reference points before filling a large area. Verify the outer stitched dimensions on the actual ground; include finishing fabric separately.
- Changing fabric count changes physical size, not chart complexity. Fractional stitches, mixed scales and non-square grounds need explicit chart instructions.
Sources
Embroidery design centering
Calculate equal side and top margins before transferring a design.
Before you use this tool
Measure the usable fabric and the finished design in the same units. At 50% the free space is split equally; 0% places the design at the starting edge and 100% at the opposite edge.
Mark the calculated edges lightly and check both axes before stitching.
Method and limits
Formula and assumptions
Remaining width and height are divided according to the selected 0–100% placement. Fifty percent centers the design; lower or higher values produce asymmetric margins. A design larger than the fabric is rejected.
Worked example
Example: a 24 × 18 cm design centered on 40 × 30 cm fabric leaves 8 cm at each side and 6 cm at top and bottom.
Limits and rounding
Results are planning estimates from the values entered. Displayed decimals are rounded for craft use; whole materials and repeats round up where the method says so. Confirm gauge, material behavior, construction, and finished measurements before committing supplies.