FilterStyle › Cross-Stitch Pattern Maker
Photo to Cross-Stitch Pattern Maker
Upload a photo and get a complete, printable cross-stitch chart: real DMC floss codes, a symbol grid, and a floss shopping list with skein estimates. Free, no sign-up, and your photo never leaves your browser.
Why stitchers choose FilterStyle
How to turn a photo into a cross-stitch pattern
- Upload your photo — portraits and pets work best. Pick a width: 40 stitches for a quick project, 80–100 for classic detail, 140 for large pieces.
- Choose colors & fabric — 15 DMC colors for beginners, 25 recommended, 40 for detail. Pick your aida count (14/16/18ct) to get the finished size.
- Generate & print — get the color chart, symbol chart and floss list. Print the full pattern or download the PNG.
Cross-stitch size guide
- 14ct aida — 14 stitches per inch. An 80-stitch wide pattern finishes at 5.7" (14.5 cm). The classic choice for beginners.
- 16ct aida — slightly finer detail, same pattern comes out smaller (80 stitches = 5.0").
- 18ct aida — fine detail for advanced stitchers (80 stitches = 4.4").
- Rule of thumb — a 25-color, 80×60 pattern takes a casual stitcher roughly 15–25 hours.
FAQ
Are these real DMC color codes?
Yes. Every stitch is matched to the closest shade in the official DMC floss chart (454 shades) using Lab color distance — the industry-standard method for color matching. Your floss list contains exact DMC codes you can buy at any craft store.
How many DMC colors should I use?
25 colors is the sweet spot for most photos — enough detail without buying the whole craft store. Choose 15 for a first project or simpler designs, 40 for portraits with subtle skin tones.
Can I print the pattern?
Yes — hit "Print full pattern" to print the symbol chart together with your floss shopping list. The grid has bold lines every 10 stitches so you can track your place.
How big will my finished piece be?
It depends on your fabric count: pattern width ÷ count = size in inches. The tool calculates it for you. 80 stitches on 14ct finishes at about 5.7 inches (14.5 cm) wide.
Is it really free?
Yes — free, no sign-up, no watermark, unlimited patterns. The whole tool runs in your browser, which is why we can offer it free: your photos are never uploaded anywhere.