Each pixel piece on SquareColoring fits a cross-stitch grid one-for-one — every square becomes a single stitch on aida cloth. Download the cross-stitch chart from any piece's print menu and you have a printable pattern to keep beside you while you stitch.

01What's in the chart

• ·A grid the size of the piece — 8×8, 16×16, 24×24, or 32×32.
• ·A small symbol in each filled square (×, ●, ◆) — each symbol stands for one floss colour.
• ·A DMC floss key at the bottom mapping each symbol to a real DMC code, name, and a swatch of the closest match.

02What you'll need

• ·14-count aida cloth — beginner-friendly, one stitch per square.
• ·An embroidery hoop (4–6 inches works for most pieces).
• ·A size 24 tapestry needle — blunt tip slips between threads cleanly.
• ·The DMC floss colours listed in the chart's key.

03How to read it

1. i.Find the centre of your aida cloth — fold lightly into quarters; the crease is your start.
2. ii.Find the centre of the chart — count to the middle column and row.
3. iii.Match symbols to floss. Each symbol is a single colour; stitch that colour wherever the symbol appears.
4. iv.Work in small blocks of one colour at a time. A single full cross is two diagonal half-stitches forming an ×.
5. v.Take breaks. The grid is small on purpose. There is no hurry.

04A note on colours

Pixel colours and DMC threads don't always match exactly — we pick the closest available DMC to each pixel colour. If a thread you'd prefer isn't listed, swap it: the chart is a guide, not a rule.

— with care, the SquareColoring team