String Art Generator
Turn a photo into circular string art with the full nail sequence
100% free. Runs entirely in your browser - your files and data never leave your device and nothing is uploaded to any server.
Drag & drop files here
or browse to upload
A high-contrast portrait works best - the image is cropped to a circle
Processed in your browser - your file never leaves this device.
How it works
Nails are placed evenly around a circle. The generator repeatedly picks the chord that covers the most remaining darkness, then subtracts what that thread already covered - which is what builds up shading instead of a single black smear. You get the nail order as a numbered list.
About this tool
Turn a photo into circular string art and get the exact nail sequence to thread it yourself. The generator repeatedly picks the chord that covers the most remaining darkness, then subtracts what that thread has already covered - which is how shading builds up instead of collapsing into one black smear.
How to use this tool
- Upload portrait or silhouetteUse a high-contrast image with clear subject boundaries.
- Configure nails and thread countSet circle resolution and line iterations based on desired detail level.
- Generate simulation and sequenceBuild algorithmic path that approximates tonal shading through thread lines.
- Export build instructionsDownload nail order and plan for physical board construction.
How to make string art from a photo
Generate the pattern, then mark the nails around a circular board at even spacing and number them. Tie the thread to the first nail and follow the nail sequence, wrapping the thread around each nail in turn. A portrait typically uses around 200 nails and 2,000 to 3,000 thread lines.
High-contrast photos of a single face, cropped close, work best. Black thread on a white board is the classic look, and it takes several hours to thread a full portrait.
Key features
- Creates real buildable string-art plans from photos.
- Outputs exact thread path sequence to reduce trial-and-error.
- Balances visual quality with practical material planning.
- Great for maker projects, gifts, and workshop activities.
Common uses
- Building handcrafted portrait wall art.
- Preparing workshop projects for schools/maker communities.
- Converting photos into algorithmic physical art pieces.
- Creating personalized gift projects with build instructions.
Tips for better results
- Use strong silhouettes for cleaner string-art readability.
- Start with moderate nail count before complex large builds.
- Track thread tension consistently to preserve intended shading.
- Label board start point clearly before weaving sequence.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using low-contrast photos that produce weak visual structure.
- Choosing very high thread counts without build-time planning.
- Skipping nail-position accuracy and distorting geometry.
- Pulling uneven thread tension and warping final tonal balance.
Frequently asked questions
Nails are spaced evenly around a circle. From the current nail, every possible chord is scored by how much of the remaining darkness it would cover, and the best one is taken. Crucially, the darkness that thread covered is then subtracted, so the next line is forced to go somewhere new. That residual subtraction is what creates tone.
High-contrast portraits and silhouettes. String art has no colour and a limited tonal range, so a busy or evenly-lit photo turns to mush. A clear subject against a plain background gives the strongest result.
Around 200 nails and 2,000-3,000 threads suits most portraits. More nails allow finer angles; more threads build deeper shadows. Both increase how long the physical build takes, so it is a trade-off between detail and patience.
Download the nail sequence, mark your nail positions evenly around a circular board, then follow the numbered order wrapping the thread around each nail as you go. The tool estimates how much thread you will need for a 50cm board.
A round wooden board or MDF circle, small nails or panel pins evenly spaced around the edge, and black thread or embroidery floss. A printed nail template taped to the board makes spacing accurate.
Several hours to a couple of days, depending on the number of lines. Thousands of threads are common, so work through the sequence in sessions and mark your place.
Thread can only add darkness, so the image is built from shadows. A face with strong light on one side gives the algorithm clear dark areas to build from.