DrawGrid: free drawing grid maker
DrawGrid is a free browser-based drawing grid maker. Add grids to JPG, PNG or WEBP images and download a gridded reference or matching blank PNG.
Photo Grid
Upload a JPG, PNG or WEBP (up to 20 MB) → Adjust the grid → Download your reference.
Calculate canvas and cell sizes →Upload a reference image
Choose a JPG, PNG or WEBP. Your image stays on this device.
No photo ready? Explore the grid with a sample image.
A complete practice example
Transfer a mug, one landmark at a time
Use a 20 × 20 cm drawing area with 4 columns × 4 rows: each cell is 5 × 5 cm. Compare where the rim, body and handle cross a cell edge, mark the same fraction in the matching blank cell, then connect the marks across neighboring cells.
These two 2400 × 2400 px grid files were downloaded from Photo Grid using this original DrawGrid worksheet illustration, with dark lines at 1× thickness, 45% opacity and labels on. Columns run A–D; rows run 1–4. No drawing result is implied.
To print at the stated size, set the image to exactly 20 × 20 cm in your print application and disable fit-to-page scaling. Measure one cell: it must be 5 cm on both sides. PNG pixels alone do not guarantee a physical print size.
To reproduce the example, download the original, upload it above, choose 4 columns and Square cells, and set the width to 20 cm. Loading a new reference replaces the current image, so export any work you want to keep first.
Mug practice instructions and printable sheet →Questions about photo grids
What is DrawGrid?
DrawGrid is a free browser-based drawing grid maker. Add grids to JPG, PNG or WEBP images and download a gridded reference or matching blank PNG. Matching cells help you compare positions and proportions when transferring the reference to paper or canvas.
How do I put a grid over a photo?
Upload your image, choose the number of columns, keep square cells on if you want automatically matched rows, then adjust the guide color, opacity, thickness and labels before exporting the result.
Which image formats and file sizes can I use?
Upload a JPG, PNG or WEBP image up to 20 MB. Convert HEIC or other formats before uploading. Both the gridded reference and the matching blank grid download as PNG files.
Do I need to install software or create an account?
No installation or account is required. DrawGrid runs in your web browser with JavaScript enabled. Adding a grid and downloading the reference or blank grid are free.
Is the grid method good for beginners?
Yes. A grid reduces a complicated reference into smaller visual problems. Beginners can focus on one cell at a time and compare edges, shapes and negative spaces without trying to judge the whole image at once.
Is using a drawing grid cheating?
No. A grid is a measuring aid, similar to a ruler, plumb line or viewfinder. It helps with placement and proportion, while the drawing, observation and mark-making decisions still come from the artist.
Can I print a matching blank grid?
Yes. Download the matching blank PNG to keep the same frame proportions, rows, columns and labels as the gridded reference. Set the drawing size in your print application and check a cell with a ruler; PNG pixel dimensions alone do not guarantee a physical print size.
Does DrawGrid upload my reference image?
No. The homepage editor processes the reference locally in your browser. You can create and export the grid without signing up or sending the image to a server.