Getting started
How to Print a Perler Bead Pattern
Check reference-chart scale, match board sections and use symbols with the bead counts.
Choose a Reference Chart or Actual-Size Layout
MotifDraft currently provides reference charts only. Each square shows a bead position; it is not printed at your board’s peg spacing. No actual-size layout or physical board comparison is claimed.
Check Paper Size and Print Settings
Choose A4 or Letter in Export settings & page preview, then use the same paper in the browser print dialog at 100% scale with headers and footers disabled. Choose black-and-white or colored symbols and a readable cell size. Each 14 × 14 or 29 × 29 board section stays on a separate chart page; large cells are reduced when needed to fit the board. The last section may contain fewer rows or columns.
Print and Measure the Calibration Guide
The reference line should measure 50 mm at 100% scale. This confirms printer scaling only; it does not make the chart an actual-size pegboard template.
Match the Pages to Your Pegboards
Board pages run left to right, then top to bottom. Global column and row ranges identify their placement. A 32 × 32 design with 29 × 29 sections uses a 2 × 2 layout with four sections, including partially empty sections.
Read the Color Key and Bead Counts
Each occupied cell is one bead. Perler Midi references include the color name, community reference number and retail SKU; check the SKU, 5 mm size and current availability with your supplier. Custom entries show a reference hex value instead. Compare both with physical supplies. Empty cells are empty pegs. Counts update after editing. Brand-reference exports include source attribution and the data license.
Troubleshoot Incorrect Print Size
If chart cells seem small, use the symbol key or view the PDF at a larger zoom. If a printout does not align with a board, use it alongside the board as a reference. This release does not offer a placement template.
Fuse beads Questions
Is this pattern maker free?
Yes. Free includes local conversion and editing up to 160 × 160, plus PNG, CSV, JSON and basic PDF printing without an account. Maker Plus supports up to 400 × 400. Cloud saving requires sign-in; Free accounts can save 5 cloud projects.
How should a beginner start?
Try a sample first, then use a small grid and a few colors. Review individual cells and print a test page before starting a large project.
Can I make a large bead design across several pegboards?
Choose a 14 × 14 or 29 × 29 square section. Strong boundaries identify each board and the printout gives global row and column ranges. Count the pegs on your own board before choosing a size; empty board sections remain part of the rectangular layout.
Can I convert a photo into a bead pattern?
Yes. Select grid size, custom bead colors and a color limit, then generate and edit the result. Simple subjects usually need less cleanup.
Which bead brands are supported?
Perler Midi 5 mm has a 103-color community reference catalog with retail SKUs. You can also use custom references. This is not manufacturer-certified color data, and no stock availability or Hama/Artkal mapping is claimed.
How are bead counts calculated?
Yes. The color key counts one bead per occupied cell; empty pegs do not count. Editing updates the totals. Export CSV for a per-color list and print the key with your board charts. Counts do not include spare beads or check stock availability.
Can I print at actual size?
This release exports enlarged reference charts only. Do not place a pegboard over the printout expecting the peg spacing to match.
Is MotifDraft affiliated with Perler?
No. MotifDraft is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Perler or another bead manufacturer.
Practice with a Working Digital Sample
Pine cottage · 32 × 32 · Square fuse-bead grids · Perler Midi 5 mm or custom colors · Up to 12 colors per chart · 14 / 29 peg sections
Fuse beads Guides & Help
Turn a Photo into a Fuse Bead Pattern →
Crop a subject, compare bead palettes and review small details before planning your pegboards.
Plan Bead Colors, Counts and Pegboards →
Read material references, estimate board coverage and check a bead list before starting your design.
Add Names and Short Messages to Your Pattern →
Preview block lettering, fit it to your chart and preserve the result in any of the five makers.
Save, Back Up and Resume Your Patterns →
Save local or cloud projects, keep editable backups and resume row progress across all five makers.
Choose PDF, PNG or CSV and Check Print Settings →
Pick the right export, match paper settings and review page boundaries before making your project.