While Aida fabric can be considered and evenweave since it has an equal number of threads running horizontally and vertically, in cross stitch it stands alone. Aida is always made from cotton and consists of four strands grouped together both horizontally and vertically and woven to create uniform blocks.
These uniform blocks are what give Aida fabric it’s count, available in 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22. When working with Aida, each stitch is worked over one block of weave.
Aida is perfect for new cross stitchers because it is strong, durable and handles repeated washing when needed. Since it is made especially for counted stitch work, like cross stitch, the grid on a cross stitch pattern will correspond to the grid on Aida fabric perfectly.
As with any cotton fabric, Aida can stain easily and so care should be taken when working with it. Washing hands before stitching, using needles and scissors dedicated to the project so there is no chance of anything else getting on them, and cleaning hoops well prior to use. It is also important to store projects rolled up instead of folded so creases aren’t created. An easy way to do this is to keep the cardboard tube from a finished paper towel roll and to wrap your work around it.
If a stain does appear on a piece of Aida, it is important to try to remove it immediately. The most practical way to be assured that the stain will come out will be to take the piece to the dry cleaner’s. If this isn’t possible or practical, follow normal stain treatment procedures; cool water for blood, hairspray for ink, etc.
Aida is a wonderful standard fabric upon which to create either simple work or masterpieces of cross stitch. It is available in a rainbow of colors and can be ordered in any size.