What is Pixel Art for Perler Beads?
Perler and Hama bead projects follow a grid where each cell is one bead - the same structure as pixel art. This tool pixelates your image and limits the colours so the result maps onto the bead colours you actually have, giving you a printable placement guide.
Common Uses for Pixel Art for Perler Beads
- Make a bead pattern from a favourite character
- Convert a logo into a fuse-bead piece
- Create a pixel portrait as a bead project
- Design small bead magnets from photos
Designing for pegboards
Work within pegboard dimensions: a single classic board is 29x29 beads. Keep the grid to 29, 58 or 87 cells per side so boards join neatly. Use a bold subject and a low colour count; the small scale of beads punishes fine detail, so simplify until the shape reads instantly.
Preparation and tips
Convert with 12-20 colours, then map each output colour to the closest bead you have. Save the gridded PNG and zoom in while you place beads, working in 5x5 sections. Iron evenly and slowly to keep the finished piece flat.