As someone who painstakingly designs cross-stitch patterns in Illustrator, I almost feel like I’m doing something wrong by telling you about MyPhotoStitches.com. But, when I saw it on on StitchPunk this morning, I new I had to try it out. Then, once I did, I knew I had to share it with you guys!
The idea is simple: You upload an image, then MyPhotoStitch.com will generate a free cross-stitch pattern based on the colors it finds. You can use the simple form to make a quick pattern, or you can use the advanced form to make more specific adjustments like cloth size selection, image enhancement, and color maximums and minimums.

I wanted to try something simple to start out, so I uploaded my three-color blog icon. When I clicked submit, the site generated my pattern, and I was able to download a PDF that included a pixelated image with suggested floss colors (matched to DMC numbers) and a detailed pattern grid in multiple sections. This is the first section of the resulting pattern. There are a few extra colors around the edges, but my icon is completely recognizable. Pretty great, right?
I think that MyPhotoStitch.com is a valuable resource for generating quick-and-dirty patterns while stitching on the fly, and it definitely simplifies the pattern-making process for more complex images, like family photos. It’s very easy to use, so I think it’s a great option for crafters who want to stitch a specific pattern, but don’t have the time and/or skills to take on a large-scale design project.
More:

• How-To: Make Your Own Sewing Pattern @Craftzine.com blog
• Create Your Own Embroidery Pattern from a Photo – CRAFT Video Podcast @Craftzine.com blog