How to turn a photo into a quilt pattern
- Choose a photo with a strong, simple subject. Pixel quilts read best from a distance, so bold shapes beat fine detail.
- Set the finished square size and the number of squares across. The tool shows the finished size of the quilt top straight away.
- Choose 6–14 fabrics. Each colour in the key is one fabric.
- Download the PDF: the layout chart, and for each fabric the number of squares, strips to cut and yardage.
Quilt sizes with 2 in finished squares
| Squares | Finished top | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 18 × 18 | 36 × 36 in (91 cm) | Baby quilt or wall hanging |
| 25 × 30 | 50 × 60 in | Lap quilt |
| 30 × 40 | 60 × 80 in | Throw |
| 36 × 45 | 72 × 90 in | Twin |
Cutting and fabric
- Cut size: finished size + ½ in. 2 in finished squares are cut at 2½ in, so pre-cut 2½ in strips (jelly rolls) work well.
- Strips: cut strips across the width of fabric and sub-cut them into squares. With 40 in usable width you get 16 squares from each 2½ in strip.
- Yardage example: 100 squares of one fabric need 7 strips, 17½ in of fabric; with 10% spare, rounded up, that is ⅝ yard.
- Not included: borders, backing and binding; add them to suit your finished size.
Piecing tips
- Label each fabric with its chart letter before cutting.
- Sew the squares into rows first, pressing seams in opposite directions on alternate rows, so they nest when you join the rows.
- Lay out a few rows on a design wall or the floor and check them against the chart before sewing.
Frequently asked questions
How is the fabric yardage worked out?
Each square is cut at the finished size plus ½ in (¼ in seam allowance on each side). Squares are cut from strips across the width of fabric (40 in usable by default), so the tool counts the strips for each colour and rounds up to the next ⅛ yard, plus 10%.
What square size should I use?
2 in finished squares are a good start: a 30 × 40 square quilt then finishes at 60 × 80 in, a throw size. Smaller squares show more detail but take much longer to piece.
How many fabrics do I need?
Pixel quilts look best with 6–14 fabrics. More colours add detail but also more fabric to buy and more cutting.
Does it include borders and backing?
No. The yardage is for the pieced top only. Add borders, backing and binding to suit your quilt.
Is my photo uploaded?
No. The pattern is calculated in your browser, so your photo never leaves your device.
Last updated 2026-10-20.