Turn my photo into a black-and-white grid art reference. Follow the labeled cells while drawing, or download a free PNG.
Black-and-white reference
6x6 square starting grid
Cell labels
Grid Art Maker editor
Grid art preview
Blank Square 1:1 grid, 6 rows x 6 columns
OriginalDrawing grid
A 4×4 drawing grid keeps the portrait in proportion.
How to Make Grid Art From a Photo
1.Upload a Reference Photo
Choose a clear portrait, object, landscape, or still life image.
2.Compare light and dark cells
The page starts with a labeled 6 by 6 square grid and black-and-white conversion. Adjust the grid density, then compare the light and dark shapes in neighboring cells. Turn black and white off to keep the original colors.
3.Download your grid art reference
Download a PNG at 2400 pixels wide. Use the cell labels to transfer outlines and shading by hand; this tool prepares the reference rather than drawing the finished artwork.
For this tool, grid art means using an art grid to break a photo into labeled cells for hand drawing. The black-and-white reference helps you compare shapes and values. It does not create pixel art or paint a finished image automatically.
Can beginners use the grid method?+
Yes. A grid helps beginners focus on one square at a time instead of guessing the whole image at once.
Can I print the grid art reference?+
Yes. Choose a paper format, adjust the grid style, and download a printable PNG.
Why does my reference start in black and white?+
Removing color lets you concentrate on light and dark areas while gridding your art. The original file is unchanged, and you can turn off Convert reference to black & white to export a color reference.
A simple grid art exercise
Choose a photo with one subject and a clear light source. Start with the labeled 6 by 6 square grid, then identify the darkest and lightest cell areas before drawing small details. Copy those large shapes first and compare them across cell boundaries.
Grid lines locate shapes, but visible contours rarely follow the grid itself. Use light pencil marks on your drawing sheet and step back regularly to check the whole image. For a matching blank worksheet, open the Grid Drawing Tool.
AI styles
Try a different look for my photo
Choose a style, preview an example, then create an image with AI credits.
