Cross Stitch Needle Guide

I've written up a short guide as to which size of Tapestry/Cross Stitch Needle to use with your project.

Tapestry/Cross Stitching Needles

Tapestry/Cross Stitching Needles have a large eye and a rounded tip. They are generally used for counted thread embroidery including cross stitch, blackwork and hardanger. The rounded tip makes it easier for the needle to pass through the holes in the fabric without tearing or splitting the fibres.

As a general guide here are the size of needled recommended for different fabrics.

Needle Size      Fabric Size

Size 18        -   6 count Aida Fabric

Size 20        -   8 count Aida Fabric  

Size 22        -   11 count Aida Fabric / 22-25-27 count evenweave

Size 24        -   14 count Aida Fabric / 28 count evenweave   

Size 26        -   16 count Aida Fabric / 32 count evenweave

Size 28        -   18 count Aida Fabric / 36 count evenweave.

As you can see, the higher the Needle size, the smaller the needle is.

Notes: If you are making fractional Stitches into Aida fabric you my find that using a smaller needle helpful since you sew through the middle of the fabric rather than the holes.

Beading Needles


Beading needles are designed to make treading and attaching small seed or bugle beads on to your work easy. Due to needing to fit through the centre of tiny beads the eyes and body of this needle are very small, the thinness of these needles also make them rather fragile.

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You can find links to all of my Cross Stitching Tutorials by clicking on the link in my Side Bar.