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Pixel art to cross stitch pattern

Convert pixel art, game sprites and 8-bit graphics into cross stitch patterns. One pixel = one stitch, DMC color matching, transparent pixels left unstitched.

Drop, paste or upload a photo100% in-browser · nothing uploaded
Adjust image

Floss list

SymbolDMCNameStitchesSkeinsStitch

Tips for pixel art patterns

Pixel art and cross stitch are the same idea: a picture made of a grid of single-colored squares. That makes sprites, icons and retro game art perfect patterns — set the width to the image's width in pixels and every pixel becomes exactly one stitch.

Confetti removal is turned off on this page, because in pixel art every pixel is intentional. Transparent pixels in PNG files are left unstitched automatically, so a sprite with a transparent background becomes a pattern with no background stitching.

Game palettes often use saturated colors that have no exact DMC equivalent. The converter picks the perceptually closest floss; if two sprite colors map to the same floss, increase the number of colors or check the floss list for duplicates.

Recommended settings

  • Set width to the sprite's pixel width
  • Use PNG with transparency for unstitched backgrounds
  • Turn dithering off
  • Small sprites look great on 11-count Aida

How to make a cross stitch pattern from a photo

  1. Add your photo. Click Upload photo, drag a file onto the preview, or paste with Ctrl/⌘+V. JPG, PNG, WebP and HEIC (where supported) work.
  2. Set size and colors. Choose the width in stitches and the maximum number of DMC colors. The finished size updates for the fabric you pick.
  3. Clean up. Keep Remove confetti on Light or Strong, adjust brightness or contrast, and click colors in the floss list to leave them unstitched.
  4. Print or save. Click Print / Save PDF for a cover page with floss list plus numbered symbol chart pages, or download a PNG chart.

FAQ

How do I make a pixel art cross stitch pattern?

Pixel art and cross stitch are the same idea: a picture made of a grid of single-colored squares. That makes sprites, icons and retro game art perfect patterns — set the width to the image's width in pixels and every pixel becomes exactly one stitch.

Are my photos uploaded?

No. Your photo is processed entirely in your browser on your own device. It is never uploaded to a server, so private family and pet photos stay private.

How do I print the pattern or save it as a PDF?

Click "Print / Save PDF". The pattern is split into numbered pages with a cover page showing the preview, finished size and floss list. In the print dialog, choose your printer or "Save as PDF".

How accurate are the DMC colors?

DMC does not publish official RGB values, so all on-screen floss colors are close approximations. Colors are matched in the CIE Lab color space for perceptual accuracy, but always compare real skeins in daylight before buying in bulk.