Choose the feature that must survive

For a pet, it might be the eyes and ear shape. For a portrait, it could be the hair silhouette and direction of the face. For a logo, it is often the outer edge and lettering. Trying to keep every object in the background packs too much information into a limited grid.

A practical source image
Start with a large subject, visible separation from the background, and lighting that does not hide important edges.

Match the conversion to the image

  • Photo / Illustration: for natural edges, shading, and continuous-tone artwork.
  • Pixel Art / Logo: for preserving an existing pixel grid and transparent empty areas.

Transparent areas in a PNG remain empty cells. This keeps a character or logo shape from gaining an unwanted bead-filled rectangle.

Tune size and color count together

  1. Start with a smaller grid. Check whether the overall silhouette is still readable.
  2. Limit the palette. Scattered near-duplicate colors add bags and color changes.
  3. Inspect only the essential features. Increase size or color count one step when a defining feature is missing.

Check four things before saving

  • Can you still read the eyes, letters, or outline that identifies the subject?
  • Did the background create beads you do not want to place?
  • Are the total bead count and number of colors realistic for this project?
  • Does the pattern use the same bead brand you own or plan to buy?

Frequently asked questions

Why do the pattern colors differ from the photo?

The app maps screen colors to available colors in the selected manufacturer's palette. Physical finishes and room lighting can also change how a bead looks.

Should I add more colors to keep more detail?

More colors can also create isolated speckles. Crop closer to the subject first, then increase grid size if an important outline is still missing.

Is my photo uploaded?

BeadCraft generates the pattern on device and does not upload the selected photo to a developer-operated photo storage server.