Converter vs maker
- Pixel art converter — upload an image, set width / colors / dithering, then edit the result.
- Pixel art maker — blank grid (or load a converted / gallery pattern) and paint cell by cell.
Free pixel art patterns open in the maker via Edit on the detail page.
Converter settings
- Width — how many pixels wide the grid is (height follows the image aspect). Smaller width = chunkier pixels.
- Max colors — palette size after conversion. Fewer colors = flatter, more poster-like art.
- Smooth gradients (dithering) — Floyd–Steinberg dithering for smoother gradients; leave off for logos and hard edges.
- Colors — includes “Any colors (picked from the image)” (colors taken from the image), plus Perler bead or Minecraft block palettes where offered.
Drawing in the maker
Set Width and Height under Canvas size. Tools: Paint, Fill, Erase, Pick, Replace all, brush size, mirror, undo/redo. Add custom hex colors under My colors.
Display → Show codes
Open Display and enable Show codes to put a letter/code in every cell. Grid toggles cell lines.
Export and Share
- PDF — numbered grid chart
- PNG / CSV
- Share — community gallery when signed in
Recommended path: convert a photo first to lock width and color count, then refine outlines in the maker. Logos and hard-edge art often belong in the maker with dithering off. Publishing: Publish your pattern to the community gallery.