The DMC Thread Checker is a free online tool that helps you track your entire DMC embroidery floss collection. You can mark which of the 489 DMC colors you own, then input any pattern's thread requirements to instantly see what you have and what you need to buy. It works offline after initial load and automatically saves to your browser - no account needed.

Use our free DMC to Anchor converter with 450+ verified color conversions from the official Yarn Tree chart. Simply enter any DMC or Anchor code to find the equivalent. Note that colors are approximate matches between brands - always complete a project using threads from the same manufacturer to ensure color consistency.

For beginners, 14-count Aida is recommended as it has visible holes and is easy to work with. Intermediate stitchers often prefer 16-18 count for finer detail. Advanced stitchers use 28-32 count linen or evenweave, stitching over two threads. Use our free Fabric Calculator to determine the exact fabric size needed for your pattern.

Primitive cross stitch is a style that creates an aged, antique look using hand-dyed fabrics (like tea-dyed linen), muted color palettes, and designs inspired by early American samplers and folk art. Patterns often feature nature motifs, simple borders, and rustic charm that resembles cherished family heirlooms. All Needle Treasures Nook patterns are designed in this modern primitive style.

DMC and Anchor are commercial 6-strand cotton embroidery floss with consistent colors between batches - they're interchangeable using our conversion tool. Hand-dyed threads (like Classic Colorworks, Gentle Art, and Weeks Dye Works) are dyed in small batches with natural color variations, creating a more organic, aged appearance perfect for primitive and sampler designs.

Use our Fabric Calculator: enter the pattern's stitch count (width x height), select your fabric count (e.g., 14ct Aida, 32ct linen over 2), and add your desired margin (typically 3-4 inches per side for framing). The calculator instantly shows the fabric size needed in both inches and centimeters.

"Over 2" means stitching over two fabric threads instead of one. This is common with high-count linens and evenweaves (28ct, 32ct, 36ct). For example, 32-count linen stitched over 2 threads gives the same stitch size as 16-count Aida. Our Fabric Calculator automatically accounts for this when you select "over 2" options.

We offer free conversion tools for popular hand-dyed thread brands: Classic Colorworks to DMC (124 colors), Gentle Art to DMC (156 colors), and Weeks Dye Works to DMC (160+ colors). Enter the hand-dyed color name to find the closest DMC equivalent.

Aida is a woven fabric with obvious holes in a grid pattern - perfect for beginners. It comes in counts like 14, 16, and 18. Linen is a natural fiber with a softer, more organic look. It comes in higher counts (28-40) and is typically stitched "over 2" threads. Linen is preferred for primitive and heirloom designs due to its texture and drape.

The number of strands depends on your fabric count: 14-count Aida: 2-3 strands. 16-18 count: 2 strands. 28-32 count over 2: 2 strands. 36+ count over 2: 1-2 strands. Using fewer strands creates a flatter, more delicate look common in primitive designs. More strands give fuller coverage.

Yes! All tools on Needle Treasures Nook are 100% free with no ads, no registration, and no limits. The DMC Thread Checker, Fabric Calculator, and all thread conversion tools work offline after first load and save your data automatically to your browser.

Digital PDF patterns are available on our Etsy shop for instant download. Printed patterns with charts are available at 123Stitch.com. We have 270+ designs featuring seasonal themes, nature motifs, and primitive samplers.