A symbol for every thread color
Read the same symbol in the grid and key. The PNG includes DMC codes and stitch totals, including in black-and-white symbol mode.
Cross-stitch pattern maker
Make a cross stitch pattern from your photo.
Match your photo to DMC floss, read each color by its symbol, and download a PNG chart with a symbol key. Choose your Aida count to check the finished size before you start.
Private by design. Your image never leaves this browser.
Your pattern starts here
Choose a photo to build a DMC floss chart and Aida-size estimate.
Pattern size—
stitches—
Colors used—
Finished size—
Isolated · stitches—
Download free PNGNo watermark · free to use
DMC floss & stitch list
Try the sample
From picture to cross stitch pattern
We converted an original illustration with this exact tool. Load the sample to reproduce the same settings, then swap in your own photo.
Width 48 stitches · Up to 12 DMC colors · Cleanup: medium · Dithering: off
48 × 48 stitches, 12 colors, 2,304 stitches in total.
Switch the chart display to symbols or colors + symbols to print a stitchable chart with a DMC key.
Stitch planning, not pixel styling
A chart that respects the fabric.
DMC numbers, stitch totals, and Aida count sit together because each one changes how the design is actually stitched.
Aida size built into the plan
Switch between 14, 16, and 18 count to see how the same stitch grid changes physical dimensions.
Fewer single-stitch detours
Cleanup reduces isolated colors that create frequent starts, stops, and thread changes.
From pixels to fabric
Balance likeness, fabric count, and stitching time.
A useful cross-stitch conversion must account for both color choice and the physical fabric grid.
Choose Aida count for scale
A design that is 140 stitches wide measures 10 inches on 14-count Aida, 8.75 inches on 16-count, and about 7.8 inches on 18-count before framing allowance.
Limit colors before buying floss
Photographs can produce many near-identical thread shades. A smaller cap creates longer runs and a manageable organizer; add colors only when they preserve a meaningful feature.
Keep fabric and finishing allowance separate
The result reports stitched dimensions. Cut fabric larger than the design so there is room for a hoop, edge finishing, washing, and framing.
Good to know
Clear answers,
before you start.
How do I turn a photo into a cross stitch pattern with symbols?
Choose a photo, set the stitch width and color limit, then generate the chart. Colors + symbols is the default. Switch to Symbols for a black-and-white chart; the downloaded PNG includes a matching symbol, DMC code and stitch count key.
How is finished cross-stitch size calculated?
PixelSkein divides stitch width and height by the selected Aida count. The result is the stitched area, not the fabric cutting size.
Which Aida count should a beginner use?
Fourteen-count Aida is widely used and easier to see. Sixteen and eighteen count make the same chart physically smaller and finer.
How many strands of DMC floss should I use?
That depends on fabric count, desired coverage, and stitching style. Two strands on 14-count Aida is common, but test on your fabric first.
Does the chart include backstitch?
No. This version generates full cross-stitch cells only; it does not infer outlines, fractional stitches, or backstitch.
Why reduce confetti in a cross-stitch photo pattern?
Isolated stitches add thread changes and can make the back untidy. Cleanup favors larger, more practical color regions.
Does PixelSkein upload the original photo?
No. The entire conversion and download run inside the browser.