Graph paper and grid paper are the same: a sheet of evenly spaced squares, also sold as quad-ruled paper. Dot grid prints only a dot where the lines would cross, usually 5 mm apart, so you get the same alignment without lines showing through your writing and drawing, which is why bullet journals use it.
Standard US graph paper has 4 squares per inch, so each square is a quarter inch (6.35 mm), sold as "4x4" or quad-ruled. 5 squares per inch (5.08 mm) is the other common US ruling, and the metric standard is 5 mm squares, about 5.08 per inch.
Any square grid works for charting, one square per stitch. To see the design at its finished size, match the grid to the fabric: 14 count Aida has 14 stitches per inch, so a 1.81 mm grid, and a Letter sheet fits 106 × 141 stitches. For easier charting, use a larger grid, such as quarter inch, and count rather than measure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between graph paper, grid paper and dot grid?
Graph paper and grid paper are the same: a sheet of evenly spaced squares, also sold as quad-ruled paper. Dot grid prints only a dot where the lines would cross, usually 5 mm apart, so you get the same alignment without lines showing through your writing and drawing, which is why bullet journals use it.
How many squares per inch is graph paper?
Standard US graph paper has 4 squares per inch, so each square is a quarter inch (6.35 mm), sold as "4x4" or quad-ruled. 5 squares per inch (5.08 mm) is the other common US ruling, and the metric standard is 5 mm squares, about 5.08 per inch.
What size graph paper do I need for cross-stitch?
Any square grid works for charting, one square per stitch. To see the design at its finished size, match the grid to the fabric: 14 count Aida has 14 stitches per inch, so a 1.81 mm grid, and a Letter sheet fits 106 × 141 stitches. For easier charting, use a larger grid, such as quarter inch, and count rather than measure.
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