How far does one skein of floss go?
One 8 m skein covers about 1,900 full crosses on 14-count Aida with two strands. Here's the full chart.
Updated
Approximate full crosses from one 8 m (8.7 yd) skein of 6-strand cotton, with an allowance for starting and finishing threads.
| Fabric | 1 strand | 2 strands | 3 strands |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11-count Aida | 2,950 | 1,500 | 1,000 |
| 14-count Aida / 28 over 2 | 3,800 | 1,900 | 1,250 |
| 16-count Aida / 32 over 2 | 4,300 | 2,150 | 1,450 |
| 18-count Aida / 36 over 2 | 4,850 | 2,450 | 1,600 |
| 22-count / linen over 1 | 5,950 | 2,950 | 2,000 |
What makes floss go further
- Stitch in rows of half crosses and come back along the row: it uses less thread on the back than finishing each cross one by one.
- Avoid long jumps across the back: end off and start again if the next area is more than about ½ in (1 cm) away.
- Use the loop start with an even number of strands: fold one strand in half and catch the loop on the back, so there's no tail to weave in.
Common questions
How long is a skein of DMC floss?
A skein of DMC Mouliné Spécial (117) stranded cotton is 8 m (8.7 yd) of 6-strand thread. Anchor stranded cotton skeins are also 8 m.
How many stitches does one skein of floss make?
About 1,900 full crosses on 14-count Aida with 2 strands. That varies with how you travel between stitches and how long your tails are, so treat it as a guide and buy a spare of your main colours.
How long should I cut my thread?
About 18 in (45 cm), roughly from your fingertips to your elbow. Longer lengths tangle, fray and wear thin as they pass through the fabric.