Upload and simplify
Choose a clear, tightly cropped photo, logo, or illustration. Set a practical stitch size and reduce colors for an easier project.
Free pattern maker · no sign-up · no source upload
Free Cross Stitch Pattern Maker
Turn a photo into a counted cross-stitch chart with DMC floss colors, clear symbols, exact stitch counts, and a printable multi-page PDF.
DMC 666 · SYMBOL X · 14 CT AIDA
X DMC 666 · Bright RedO DMC 892 · Carnation
01
Make your stitch pattern
Free PNG, printable PDF, and DMC CSV. No account needed.
140%
64 × 48 stitches · 14-count Aida11.6 × 8.7 cm
Every export is free without sign-in. PNG and PDF include symbols, grid lines, and coordinates; PDF splits large patterns into readable 30 × 30 stitch pages.
02
DMC floss list
Symbols and stitch totals match the chart and every export.
SymbolDMC flossStitchesShare
DMC swatches are approximate on-screen RGB values, not exact thread colors. Stitch counts describe this generated full-cross chart; they are not a skein purchasing estimate.
FROM PHOTO TO FABRIC
A chart you can actually stitch.
Check the chart and fabric
Switch between color preview and symbol chart. Choose Aida count to see the finished size before you print or buy materials.
Print and start stitching
Download the paged PDF, symbol PNG, and DMC floss CSV free. Row numbers, ten-stitch lines, and the shared legend keep every file consistent.
LOCAL, PRACTICAL, FREE
Your photo stays yours.
BlockArtLab converts the image in your browser rather than sending it to a server. Each visible grid cell is matched to a DMC reference color, transparent cells are left unstitched, and the selected color limit is applied before symbols and stitch totals are calculated.
The result is a counted full-cross pattern, not an automatic backstitch or fractional-stitch editor. For best results, simplify busy backgrounds and review confetti-like isolated stitches before committing to a large project. DMC is a trademark of its respective owner; BlockArtLab is an independent tool.
CROSS STITCH FAQ
Before you thread the needle.
How do I make a cross stitch pattern from a photo?
Upload a JPG, PNG, or WebP image, choose the stitch dimensions, and set a maximum number of DMC colors. BlockArtLab converts the picture locally, assigns a symbol to each color, and calculates the stitch totals. Check the color or symbol preview, select your Aida fabric count, and then download the free PNG, printable PDF, or floss CSV.
What is a counted cross stitch pattern?
A counted pattern uses a grid in which each square represents a stitch on even-weave fabric such as Aida. You count from the chart rather than following a design printed on the cloth. Every chart made by BlockArtLab is a counted full-cross pattern with coordinates and a symbol legend.
Does BlockArtLab use real DMC thread colors?
The converter matches stitches against a 453-color DMC reference palette and reports the corresponding numbers and names. Screen RGB swatches are approximations, not exact representations of dyed floss, so confirm important colors with physical thread or a manufacturer shade card. The material list gives exact stitch counts, not an automatic skein estimate.
Does the tool add backstitch outlines?
No. BlockArtLab currently generates full-cross charts only and does not add automatic backstitch outlines. The exported grid and symbol legend give you a clean counted pattern; any outline work can be planned separately before you stitch.
Does it create fractional stitches?
No. Each occupied square in the generated chart represents one full cross, while transparent areas remain unstitched. BlockArtLab does not currently create quarter or three-quarter stitches, which keeps the chart, PNG, PDF, and stitch counts consistent.
Which fabric count should I choose?
For many first projects, 14-count Aida is an easy place to start. BlockArtLab supports 11, 14, 16, and 18-count Aida. A higher count makes the same chart physically smaller because more stitches fit into each inch. The tool shows the estimated finished size in both inches and centimetres.
How many colors should I use?
Around 10–16 colors is a useful starting range for a simpler project. More colors can preserve additional photo detail, while fewer colors usually mean fewer thread changes and less scattered confetti stitching. BlockArtLab lets you compare settings with a limit of 4 to 48 colors before exporting.
Can I make a cross stitch pattern from text or letters?
Yes, if you first create the lettering as an image in a graphics or text editor and upload it. Use a large, clear font and try a small color limit for a name, monogram, or simple sampler. BlockArtLab does not currently include a built-in text or drawing editor.
Is the cross stitch chart printable?
Yes. The free PDF starts with a complete color overview, then divides the design into readable 30 × 30 stitch pages with row and column numbers and heavier ten-stitch lines. It also includes the DMC symbol legend and stitch totals. You can download a gridded symbol PNG and a floss CSV as well.
Can I calculate the finished fabric size?
Yes. The finished-size readout divides your stitch dimensions by the selected Aida count and displays the result in inches and centimetres. This is the stitched area, not the amount of fabric to cut; add enough extra margin on every side for framing or finishing.
Do I need to install software or create an account?
No. BlockArtLab runs in a modern browser, and conversion plus all PNG, PDF, and CSV exports are free without registration or watermarks. Your source image is processed locally rather than uploaded. Export anything you want to keep before closing or refreshing the page because this version does not save projects.
What needle should I use for my Aida fabric?
A blunt tapestry needle is the usual choice. Common starting sizes are 22 for 11-count Aida, 24 for 14-count, 24 or 26 for 16-count, and 26 for 18-count. Needle preference also depends on your thread and stitching style, so test a few stitches on a fabric scrap first.