PatternFable

What is PatternFable?

PatternFable is a browser-based cross stitch chart maker that converts a photo into an editable DMC thread chart and a printable PDF pattern. It is aimed at cross stitchers and craft hobbyists who want custom charts from photos, illustrations or simple artwork, and it also offers a blank grid for drawing a design from scratch.

How to use PatternFable?

1. Upload a JPG, PNG or WebP image up to 15 MB. Cropping away distractions first gives a clearer result.
2. Set the pattern width (20 to 200 stitches), the maximum colors (2 to 40) and the Aida fabric count (11, 14, 16 or 18 ct).
3. Generate the pattern and review the preview on the page.
4. Open the editor to refine the chart, then preview the PDF and download it.

Key features of PatternFable

• Photo conversion: builds a chart from the image using DMC thread colors. The color limit is a maximum, so simple images may use fewer shades.
• Editor: paint and erase cells, fill areas, draw lines and shapes, and undo or redo. Palette tools let you search threads by brand, number, name or color family, and replace or merge shades. Conservative confetti cleanup reduces scattered stitches.
• Multiple views: color, color with symbols, black-and-white symbols and a stitched preview.
• Printable PDF: choose A4 or US Letter, portrait or landscape, with color symbols, black-and-white symbols or both. It includes an overview, a thread key with symbol, number, name and stitch count, and enlarged chart pages with coordinates and center markers.
• Blank grid: Create your own design starts an 80 by 80 grid on 14-count Aida.

Use cases for PatternFable

Custom portraits and gifts

Turn a pet photo, flower or simple illustration into a chart, then simplify details that do not survive a small grid.

Planning finished size

Fabric count sets physical size. A 100 by 75 stitch chart measures about 7.1 by 5.4 inches on 14-count Aida, and smaller on higher counts.

Pricing for PatternFable

Creating, editing, previewing and downloading PDFs are free during the current preview phase. The pricing page lists planned export credits at 2.99 US dollars for one export and 5.99 US dollars for three, marked coming soon with payments currently disabled.

Frequently asked questions about PatternFable

Does it convert to Anchor threads?

Photo generation matches DMC colors only. Automatic DMC to Anchor conversion is not provided, so substitutions should be checked against a conversion reference and real thread.

How do I keep access to my pattern?

The current version uses a browser access key, so clearing site data or switching browsers may remove access. Downloading the PDF gives you a copy.