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I did write a full reply but I tried to edit it and it all disappeared when I tried to post the edit. So here goes:
I did resize the image to 214 wide x 221 high at 144 ppi. I need the width to be 214 stitches. The original version of this image was roughly 500 pixels but I can't remember exactly and it grew as I started tweeking options then pixel size.
Yes, I manually choose my colors. I am finding that allowing the program to choose for me produces a range of results that are unsuitable for my use. Usually I see colors that do not highlight the design elements to my liking, more/less colors, errant colors, and/or mismatched colors.
This particular image is a png but I also use jpg.
All of the following trials used the full switchboard palette, auto pixel=stitches, color sensitivity at preset 20, max smoothness, and light stray pixel cleanup. Any deviations will be noted...
This test was manual color choice of the 4 shown on the pdf screenprints. Errant colors begin in row 1. However color matching is correct otherwise.

Just out of curiosity I then flipped the image 90 & manually chose colors to see what would happen: still errant colors...



Next test used unlimited auto selection of palette for an image that only contains 4 colors. I know it is only 4 colors as I created the png myself. 55 colors from that 4 color image? but also check out how the pdf came out...






Then I decided to limit the auto selection from palette to 4 colors. Far more errant colors than other tries. Also color mismatches. The white came out with the blues from the palette and the green it used is the kelly green but it has a color in the palette that is just green (I manually choose it) that is lighter and closer to what I used in the image...



I did one more thing to the image and tried these tests again...results to be continued... Thanks, Kathy
So when I get to the end of a row I should chain one but not count it as part of the actual pattern?
Mccarthy,
Welcome!

Sounds like you're really doing a lot of interesting things in beading!

I used to cross stitch, so I found beading the other way, by beading directly on cross stitch fabric (both Aida cloth and linen), then converting over to off-loom techniques.
I don't recall having a particular difficulty with either Aida cloth or linen; do you find you need to wear glasses of some kind, perhaps magnifiers to help you focus on the fabric better? Are you having similar difficulty with tapestry needles? And if not, is it the length of the beading needle that might be the problem? When I used to bead on cross stitch fabric, I used a very thin, small "sharps" needle. Unlike a beading needle, it's quite short and could make it easier on you to find the holes in the fabric.
I can't think of anything else offhand. Of course, needlepoint canvas would be a good alternative IMO, since it's very different from Aida cloth or linen. You might be able to find a particular technique that fits needlepoint canvas better than a conventional stitch would on Aida or linen.
One other thought, though I can't imagine this would really affect anything. What kind of stitch do you use to attach the beads to your cloth? There is a much better way than a half cross stitch, which is to make a tent stitch. A tent stitch uses more thread and holds your beads on much more securely than a half cross stitch. (It's a stitch that's generally used for needlepoint.)
Wish I could think of something else; I'm not sure if the above is at all helpful, and if it's not, my apologies!
I was looking for someplace to graph my own design, not upload a picture and have it turned into a pattern. Is that possible with your software? I only see to upload a picture.
Thank you,
Carolyn
Sherry,
Great advice! I second that...a very simple small graph is best.

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