GridStitchCross Stitch Pattern Maker: Photo to Printable Chart
Turn a photo into a counted cross stitch chart with symbols, matched floss color numbers and stitch counts per color. Free, private (runs in your browser) and ready to print.
No photo handy?
How it works
Upload your picture
Choose a photo or drawing. Crop it first so the subject fills the frame.
Set the size
Pick the width in stitches and your fabric count (11, 14, 16 or 18). The tool shows the finished size in inches and cm.
Choose the number of colors
The colors are matched to the nearest standard embroidery floss numbers, with a symbol for each.
Print the chart
Download a PDF with a color key and the chart split into numbered pages, or a single PNG.
How this cross stitch pattern maker works
The tool shrinks your image to one square per cross, groups the colors into the number of threads you choose, and then snaps each color to the closest standard six-strand floss shade. Each thread gets a symbol so you can read the chart in color or in black and white. Isolated single crosses (so-called confetti stitches) are cleaned up automatically if you want.
Choosing a fabric count
The fabric count is how many crosses fit in one inch. 14-count is the most common for beginners; 18-count gives a smaller, finer picture. A 100-stitch-wide design is about 7.1" wide on 14-count and 5.6" on 18-count.
Tips for a better chart
Increase contrast and crop before uploading. Portraits usually need 20–30 colors and at least 100 stitches wide; simple graphics look great with 6–10 colors.
FAQ
Is the cross stitch pattern maker free?
Yes. Charts, color keys, PNG and PDF downloads are free and need no account.
Are the floss colors real thread numbers?
Yes — with "Match to floss colors" on, each color is snapped to the nearest shade in a public table of standard six-strand embroidery floss numbers (the numbering used by most thread charts). Colors on screen are approximate, so check them against a real color card.
Does my photo get uploaded?
No. Everything runs in your browser; the image never leaves your device.
How many stitches wide should my pattern be?
Small motifs: 40–80. Detailed pictures and portraits: 100–200. Remember that bigger charts take much longer to stitch.
How do I print a large chart?
Use the PDF download. It puts the color key on the first page and splits the chart into numbered pages of 40 × 50 stitches with bold lines every 10.
Can I sell items made from my chart?
Yes, if you own the rights to the photo or artwork you uploaded. Only use images you made or have permission to use.