A cross-stitch pattern from a baby photo

Updated 3 November 2026

Short answer: pick a close photo of the baby's face in soft, even light, make it about 70 to 100 stitches wide, and leave fabric below for the name, date and weight.

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Choosing the photo

Close and clear: the face fills most of the frame, in focus.
Even light: daylight from a window, no harsh shadows across the face.
A plain background that contrasts with the subject. It becomes a simple area of stitches, not hundreds of tiny colour changes.

Baby skin tones are soft and close together. Use at least 12 colours so the cheeks and shadows don't flatten into one shade.

Birth details

Many birth samplers add the name, date, time and weight. Plan a few extra inches of fabric for that text below the picture.

Size

Width	14-count	16-count	18-count	22-count
70 stitches	5.0 in (13 cm)	4.4 in (11 cm)	3.9 in (10 cm)	3.2 in (8 cm)
85 stitches	6.1 in (15 cm)	5.3 in (13 cm)	4.7 in (12 cm)	3.9 in (10 cm)
100 stitches	7.1 in (18 cm)	6.2 in (16 cm)	5.6 in (14 cm)	4.5 in (12 cm)

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Questions people ask

What size is good for a baby photo cross-stitch?

About 70 to 100 stitches wide, which on 14-count Aida is 5 to 7 inches across, plus space for the text.

Why does the skin look patchy?

Skin tones are close together. Try more colours, or a photo with softer, more even light.