About
KG-Chart, developed by Ikuta Software & Design Studio, is a comprehensive chart-designing software suite tailored for crafters and needlework enthusiasts. Originally launched as KG-Chart for Cross Stitch and KG-Chart for Bead Weaving on Windows, the platform has expanded into StitchSketchEx — a modern, cross-platform successor available on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. Users can design intricate charts for cross stitch, bead weaving, Perler beads, knitting patterns, and pixel art projects all within a single dedicated environment. The earlier mobile app, StitchSketch, brought touch-optimized chart creation to iPhone and iPad, while StitchSketchEx unifies all platforms under one upgraded application that fully reads and edits legacy KG-Chart and StitchSketch files. Key capabilities include color palette management, color code assignment, PDF export with embedded color lists, and craft-specific grid tools designed to match the precise requirements of needlework and bead art. Whether you are a casual hobbyist designing a personalized gift, a professional crafter selling original patterns, or a pixel artist working on a grid-based project, KG-Chart and its successors provide a focused, purpose-built design environment that general graphic tools simply cannot replicate. The suite caters to a global audience with both English and Japanese versions available.
Key Features
- Cross-Platform Support: StitchSketchEx runs on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android, enabling seamless chart design across all your devices.
- Multi-Craft Chart Design: Supports chart creation for cross stitch, bead weaving, Perler beads, knitting patterns, and pixel art in one unified tool.
- Color Palette & Code Management: Assign color codes to designs and export color lists to PDF for easy reference during crafting sessions.
- Legacy File Compatibility: StitchSketchEx reads and edits files originally created in KG-Chart and StitchSketch, protecting your existing pattern library.
- Touch-Optimized Mobile Interface: The mobile StitchSketch and StitchSketchEx apps feature touch controls tailored for iPhone and iPad use on the go.
Use Cases
- Creating custom cross stitch patterns as personalized gifts or for commercial sale
- Designing bead weaving and Perler bead art charts with fully color-coded palettes
- Charting detailed knitting patterns with precise stitch and color planning
- Building grid-based pixel art for digital or physical craft projects
- Converting creative image ideas into structured needlework-ready pattern charts
Pros
- Versatile Craft Support: Covers a wide range of crafts — cross stitch, bead weaving, knitting, Perler beads, and pixel art — in one dedicated suite.
- True Cross-Platform Availability: StitchSketchEx brings the full experience to Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android, making it accessible to virtually every user.
- Backward Compatible with Legacy Files: StitchSketchEx opens older KG-Chart and StitchSketch files, so your existing patterns are never stranded.
Cons
- Highly Niche Audience: The software is specialized for needlecraft and bead art, limiting its usefulness outside of those specific crafting communities.
- Learning Curve for Beginners: The depth of features across the product suite can feel overwhelming for users new to digital chart design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between KG-Chart and StitchSketchEx?
KG-Chart is the original Windows-based chart design application, while StitchSketchEx is its cross-platform successor running on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. StitchSketchEx also reads and edits legacy KG-Chart files.
What types of crafts can I design charts for?
You can create charts for cross stitch, bead weaving, Perler beads, knitting patterns, and pixel art projects.
Is there a mobile app available?
Yes. StitchSketch was the original iOS-only app, and StitchSketchEx is the newer cross-platform version available on both iOS and Android.
Can I use my old KG-Chart files in StitchSketchEx?
Yes, StitchSketchEx is fully backward compatible and can open and edit chart files originally created in KG-Chart and StitchSketch.
Does KG-Chart support PDF export?
Yes, KG-Chart supports exporting charts to PDF, including color lists and color code assignments to assist you while working on your physical project.
