Photo Scanning Tips

Tips and advice on how to scan your photographs or artwork for conversion to a cross stitch or tapestry chart.

Because there are so many different scanners on the market, we cannot provide advice on how to use different makes and models. If in doubt, please refer to your scanner documentation.

Also since all needlework software manufacturers recommendations are often different, these instructions apply only to patterns created by KC Cross Stitch.

Our recommendations

To ensure the best quality result, it is essential that you observe the following recommendations:

  • Ensure that your photograph is clear of dust spots etc. Clean it with a soft cloth before placing it on the glass scanner bed
  • Ensure that your scanner glass is clean otherwise dust spots, dirt etc, will be visible on the scanned image
  • Scan your photograph or artwork at 150 DPI (dots per inch). Never scan at a higher or to the maximum resolution of your scanner as this will not produce a quality result
  • Set your scanning software and scan your photograph as near as possible to the final stitched size of your required pattern. This means that if your required size is A4 size then you need to set the scan size to approximately 11 x 6 inches
  • Save your image in JPEG image format and email to us via our order page. Do not enhance your image as we will lighten, brighten, sharpen and enhance your image to get the best result

Alternatively you may send us a copy of your photograph and we will do it for you. To choose this option, please ensure that you have a spare copy just in case your photo or artwork is damaged or lost in the mail. We will return this with your order.

For Artwork larger than normal photocopier paper size (A4), we recommend your take it to a copy shop and have it reduced to A4 size that will fit our scanner bed.

Please note we will not scan photographs or artwork that is subject to copyright unless you have written permission from the person or company that owns the photo or artwork.

Our mailing address for photographs and artwork is:

KC Cross Stitch
PO Box 47-056
Trentham
NEW ZEALAND 5143