How to Read a Cross Stitch Pattern: Symbols, Keys and Grids

The first time you open a cross stitch chart, it can look like a page of hieroglyphics. Hundreds of little symbols, lines of different weights, a list of thread numbers. Take a breath: every part of it has a simple job, and once you know those jobs, reading any chart becomes second nature.

This guide explains each element, then walks through reading a real section of a chart square by square.

The parts of a cross stitch pattern

Most patterns, whether from a book, a kit or a pattern generator, include the same building blocks:

DMC sums it up nicely: your chart contains all the information you need to stitch your design.

Squares: one square, one stitch

The grid on the chart mirrors the grid on your fabric. According to the Cross Stitch Guild, each square, whether it's filled or empty, represents one block of Aida or two threads of linen, unless the pattern says otherwise.

• A square with a symbol gets one full cross stitch.
• A square without a symbol is left unstitched, letting the fabric show.

Because every square maps to one stitch, the chart doesn't tell you how big the finished piece will be. That depends on your fabric count. A 100-stitch-wide chart is about 7.1 inches wide on 14-count Aida and 5.6 inches on 18-count. Our Aida cloth count guide explains the formula.

Symbols and the color key

Every symbol on the chart corresponds to one thread color. DMC explains that where a symbol takes up the full square, a full cross stitch is required, and the thread color key shows which color each symbol means.

A typical key looks like this:

Some keys add more columns, such as skein counts or a color swatch. Photo patterns, like the ones Cross Stitch Pattern Generator creates, include a DMC thread key with skein counts so you know how much to buy. Our charts are full cross stitches only, so you will not find backstitch lines or partial-stitch symbols on them. If you want to understand those numbers yourself, see how much embroidery floss you need.

Color charts vs. black-and-white charts

Some charts print symbols on colored squares; others are black and white. Colored charts make it easy to see the overall picture. Black-and-white symbols can be easier to tell apart when shades are similar, and the Cross Stitch Guild notes that many stitchers prefer the black and white variety for exactly that reason.

Grid lines: counting in tens

Look closely and you'll see some grid lines are bolder than others. DMC notes that patterns are broken up with larger grid lines to make it easier to count blocks of stitches. On most charts, these heavier lines fall every 10 squares, forming 10 × 10 blocks.

These lines are only on paper. You don't stitch them, but they save enormous counting effort.

Worked example: you need to place a stitch at column 37. Instead of counting 37 single squares, count past three heavy lines (30), then seven more squares. The seventh square after the third heavy line is column 37.

Finding the center

Starting in the middle keeps your design centered on the fabric. DMC recommends it to make sure the design is perfectly centered.

On the chart

Look for arrows at the middle of the top, bottom and side edges. DMC explains that where they all intersect is the center point. The Cross Stitch Guild suggests using a colored pen to rule a line from arrow to arrow so the center is unmistakable.

No arrows? Count the stitches across and down and halve them. On a chart 101 stitches wide, the center is stitch 51. On a chart 140 stitches wide, the center falls on the grid line between stitches 70 and 71.

On the fabric

Fold your fabric in half, then in half again. DMC notes that where the two folds intersect is the center. Mark it with a pin, or baste along both folds as the Cross Stitch Guild suggests.

Backstitch lines

Backstitch adds outlines, lettering and fine details like whiskers. DMC explains that when a square contains a straight or dotted line that joins two corners, a backstitch is required. Backstitch lines also often run along the edges of squares.

Patterns with several backstitch colors usually give each one a different line color or style, listed separately in the key.

Practical tips:

• Stitch backstitch last. DMC says to add backstitch after the cross stitches are complete because it can overlap stitched areas.
• Use fewer strands. DMC suggests a single strand for fine outlines, and the Cross Stitch Guild generally suggests one strand and a slightly smaller needle.
• Follow each line one grid unit at a time, rather than making long stitches, unless the pattern specifically calls for them.

Fractional stitches

DMC describes half, quarter and three-quarter stitches as the less common "fractional" stitches. Designers use them to shape curves and smoother edges.

Chart conventions vary from designer to designer, so always check the key for how that pattern draws each one.

When you stitch them, the Cross Stitch Guild notes that fractional stitches are less easy to form on Aida because the needle passes down the central hole in the thread group. Its fabric basics page says the same of three-quarter stitches compared with evenweave.

French knots and other specialty stitches

Charts sometimes include French knots, often shown as dots or small circles, along with beads or long stitches. These are usually explained in a separate section of the key. If a symbol isn't in the main thread list, look for a "specialty stitches" or "backstitch and knots" section.

Reading a section of chart, step by step

Let's put it together with a small block of a chart using the key above:

1. Find your place. You're working the 10 × 10 block that sits just right and below the center.
2. Read the first row left to right. It shows ■ ■ ■ ■ ○ ○ ○ followed by three blank squares.
3. Translate it. That's 4 stitches in DMC 310, then 3 in B5200, then 3 unstitched squares.
4. Stitch by color. Work the four 310 stitches as a row of half crosses, return to complete them, then switch to B5200.
5. Mark it off. Highlight the squares you've finished on a printed copy.

DMC suggests exactly that approach: print a black-and-white version of the chart and use a highlighter to color in each block as you go, or use a magnetic board to keep track of your row.

Tips for large and photo-based charts

Photo patterns can have many similar colors and few large areas of a single color. A few habits help:

• Count across the shortest gaps. The Cross Stitch Guild notes that mistakes most often happen when counting across long sections of blank fabric.
• Never turn the chart halfway. You can work upside down if you prefer, but the Guild warns never to turn halfway, or your stitches will face the wrong way.
• Organize threads by symbol. DMC recommends project cards with the symbols next to each color.
• Zoom the PDF or print sections enlarged if symbols feel too small.
• Work one 10 × 10 block at a time. It's easier to spot and fix a miscount before it spreads.

Ready to put this into practice? Our cross stitch for beginners guide covers supplies and first stitches, and how to turn a photo into a cross stitch pattern shows how to create a chart from your own photo. When you have one, upload it and the free preview shows the chart before you pay.

Frequently asked questions

What does each square on a cross stitch chart mean?

Each square represents one stitch. On Aida that's one block of fabric; on evenweave or linen it's usually two threads. A square with a symbol gets a stitch in the color the key assigns to that symbol, and a blank square stays unstitched.

Why are some grid lines darker on a cross stitch pattern?

The bolder lines, usually every 10 squares, divide the chart into blocks so you can count in tens instead of one square at a time. They don't mean anything is stitched; they're just a counting aid.

How do I find the center of a cross stitch pattern?

Look for arrows on the edges of the chart and follow them inward; where the lines meet is the center. On the fabric, fold it in half and in half again. Start stitching where both centers match.

How are backstitches shown on a chart?

Backstitches are usually shown as straight or dotted lines running along the grid lines or joining corners of squares. The key lists the thread color for each line style. Backstitch is typically worked after the cross stitches, often with one strand.

What are fractional stitches in cross stitch?

Fractional stitches are half, quarter and three-quarter stitches. They let a design show curves and fine detail. Charts often show them as a symbol filling only part of a square, but conventions vary, so always check the pattern's key.

Sources

• DMC — How to read a cross stitch chart (squares, symbols, grid lines, center arrows, fractional stitches, backstitch lines, highlighter and project cards)
• DMC — Beginning cross stitch (start in the middle of the design and the fabric)
• DMC — Preparing your fabric (find the center by folding in half and in half again)
• DMC — Use back stitch to accentuate your cross stitch (after the crosses, single strand, small lettering)
• The Cross Stitch Guild — Chart and key basics (one square is one block of Aida or two threads of linen, black and white charts, center lines, counting across blank fabric, never turn the chart halfway)
• The Cross Stitch Guild — Fabric basics (three-quarter stitches more difficult on Aida than on evenweave)
• The Cross Stitch Guild — Cross stitch FAQs (tweeding: two colors combined in the needle)
• The Cross Stitch Guild — Away waste knot start (one strand for backstitch; fractional stitches less easy on Aida)