How do I make a cross stitch pattern from an image?

Upload any image to Xstitchify and it will automatically convert it into a cross stitch chart with DMC thread colour codes. Choose your pattern size (up to 600 stitches on the longest side) and number of colours (3-50), then click Generate Pattern. You can edit the result and download it as a printable PDF or PNG.

Is the cross stitch pattern maker free?

Yes. Xstitchify is completely free to use. You can generate unlimited patterns, edit them, and download free PNG colour previews. Print-ready PDF downloads with stitch charts, colour keys, and thread lists require credits (5 free on signup).

What image formats can I use to make a pattern?

Xstitchify accepts JPG, PNG, GIF, WebP, BMP, SVG, HEIC/HEIF (iPhone), and AVIF files. Higher resolution images produce more detailed patterns, but the tool works with any size. For best results, use a clear, well-lit photo with good contrast.

Can I edit the pattern after generating it?

Yes. After generating your pattern, you can open it in the built-in editor to change individual stitches, swap colours, add or remove DMC threads, and fine-tune the design. The editor works with Apple Pencil on iPad, touch on mobile, and mouse on desktop.

Does the pattern maker work on iPad and mobile?

Yes. Xstitchify works entirely in your browser on iPad, iPhone, Android, and desktop computers. No app download is needed. On iPad, you can use Apple Pencil to edit patterns. The generated PDFs are compatible with Pattern Keeper for tracking your stitching progress.

How many colours should I use in a cross stitch pattern?

For most images, 10-20 colours gives a good balance between detail and stitchability. Fewer colours (5-10) produces a simpler, more stylised look with less confetti. More colours (20-50) captures finer detail but requires more thread management and creates more confetti stitches.

Cross Stitch Pattern Maker

Help

Upload Image

Drop image here or click to upload

PNG, JPG, SVG

No photo? Start from a text prompt

Describe what you want and our AI generator turns it into a stitchable chart you can edit here.

Fabric Count

Pattern Size

Max 600 stitches on the longest side. The other side scales to match your image.

Number of Colors

Image Type

Thread Brand

Advanced image adjustments

Colour adjustment

Use only when a photo has a visible tint or overly intense colours after conversion.

Remove Background

Simple is instant for flat backgrounds; smart cutout can help photos but may need checking.

Import from another app PAID

Learn more

Upload an .oxs file, Pattern Maker .xsd file or PCStitch 7/8 .pat file. PCStitch 8 brings across the palette and full stitches; Pattern Maker XSD and PCStitch 7 also bring across backstitch, knots, halves and quarters.

Unlock pattern import with a paid plan

Start with a pattern

Free cross stitch patterns

Open a starter pattern, then edit and save it as your own.

My patterns

Happy Birthday Flowers

250 x 300 stitches · 17 colours

Jellyfish

420 x 600 stitches · 20 colours

One Stitch at a Time

403 x 403 stitches · 1 colours

Bird

300 x 428 stitches · 50 colours

Highland Cow

600 x 600 stitches · 23 colours

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Free Cross Stitch Pattern Maker and Chart Generator

Our cross stitch pattern maker converts any image into a printable counted cross stitch chart with DMC thread colours. Upload a photo, pixel art, a logo, or any design and get a stitchable pattern in seconds - Xstitchify is the easiest image to cross stitch generator online.

Every cross stitch pattern is automatically colour-matched to DMC thread codes, so you know exactly which threads to buy. Adjust the pattern size from 30 to 600 stitches on the longest side and choose from 3 to 50 colours for the perfect balance of detail and simplicity. Use photo mode for detailed images or vector mode for clean logos and graphics.

Works on any device - iPad, iPhone, Android, and desktop - right in your browser with no app to download. Edit patterns with Apple Pencil on your iPad, tweak colours on your phone, or work on a big screen at your desk. All PDF downloads are Pattern Keeper compatible, so you can track your stitching progress on the go.

After generating a chart, you can refine it in the editor with motifs, stamps, borders, backstitch-style lettering and symmetrical design elements. For more focused design workflows, see the blackwork cross stitch designer or the cross stitch mandala pattern designer.

How It Works

Upload your photo or image (PNG, JPG, HEIC, or any picture)
Choose your pattern width and number of DMC colours
Select photo mode or vector mode
Edit your pattern in the built-in designer, then download as PDF or PNG

Converting a photo? See our photo to cross stitch guide, or learn how to reduce confetti stitches. No photo handy? Start from a text prompt with the AI cross stitch pattern generator. Looking for text or letter patterns? Try our cross stitch text generator with multiple fonts. Or use the pattern designer to draw original patterns from scratch. Need a thread reference? Browse our DMC colour chart with all 454 colours, or see the full range across Anchor, Madeira, and Cosmo.