How the skein count works
A full cross uses two diagonals on the front and two short runs on the back, about 4.8 times the width of one square. Hoop adds half again for starting, ending and moving between areas. A DMC skein is 8 metres of six strands, so with two strands you get three working lengths from each skein.
On 14-count with two strands that comes to roughly 1,800 stitches a skein. Stitchers who carry thread a long way on the back use more. Buy a spare of any colour you'd hate to run out of mid-project: dye lots can differ.
Questions
How many colours should I pick?
Between 10 and 16 suits most photos. Fewer colours make a bolder, more graphic pattern and fewer skeins. Portraits with soft skin tones need 20 or more.
How is the skein count worked out?
From the number of stitches in each colour, the fabric count and two strands, with half again added for starting, ending and travelling on the back. A DMC skein is 8 metres of six strands. Buy one spare of any colour you use a lot.
Which fabric should I buy?
14-count aida is the usual start: easy to see and count. 16 and 18 make a smaller, finer piece from the same pattern. Cut your fabric 3 inches (7.5 cm) bigger than the design on every side.
More from Hoop
Want a PDF you can open in Pattern Keeper?
Page-split PDFs with symbols, and floss in Anchor and Madeira, are next. Leave your email and we'll tell you when they're ready.