How to draw a pixel circle
- Set the size in pixels. Common sprite sizes are 8, 16, 32 and 64.
- Choose Thin for a classic 1 pixel outline, Thick for a bolder line with no diagonal steps, or Filled for a solid disc. Wall width makes a ring of any thickness.
- Zoom in to check the curve, then download the PNG. The PNG keeps the grid lines so it is easy to trace.
Even and odd sizes
An even size such as 16 puts the centre between 4 pixels, which suits most sprite sheets. An odd size such as 15 puts one pixel in the exact centre, which suits icons with a dot or a cross in the middle. Try both and compare the curve.
Where pixel circles are used
- Pixel art and game sprites
- Minecraft and other block game builds
- Cross stitch, perler beads, knitting and crochet charts
- Graph paper and embroidery patterns
More tools
Questions
What is a pixel circle?
A pixel circle is a circle drawn on a square grid, where each square is either on or off. It is the same thing as a block circle, a sprite circle, or a circle on graph paper.
Can I use this for pixel art and sprites?
Yes. Pick the size in pixels, choose Thin for a 1 pixel outline, then download the PNG and trace it, or read the row list to place each pixel.
Can I use it for cross stitch, knitting or beads?
Yes. Each square is one stitch or one bead. Print the grid at any zoom and work row by row, using the row list for the exact count on each row.
Why does my small circle look square?
Below about 7 pixels a circle has very few pixels to curve with. Try an odd size such as 7, 9 or 11, or use the Thick style for a rounder look.