Hex to DMC Converter
Convert HEX colors to DMC embroidery thread matches using advanced Delta E color matching. Perfect for cross stitch pattern design, embroidery projects, and thread color selection.
Color Input
Recommended Settings
Color Matching Tips
- •Delta E < 2.0 = Excellent match (barely perceptible difference)
- •Delta E 2.0-5.0 = Good match (perceptible but acceptable)
- •Delta E > 5.0 = Noticeable difference (consider alternatives)
- •Natural lighting gives more accurate color perception than screen colors
Best Practices
- •Use color picker for exact screen colors, RGB sliders for fine-tuning
- •Check multiple matches - sometimes the second or third match works better in context
- •Image extraction works best with clear, well-lit photos
- •Export your palette as CSV for shopping lists and project planning
Pro Tips
- •DMC thread colors can vary slightly between dye lots - always buy enough for your project from the same lot
- •Screen colors may differ from physical thread - order a physical color card for critical projects
- •The Delta E algorithm matches perceptual color differences, not just RGB values
Most Popular
Most users convert 5-10 colors at a time from design files or inspiration images
When to Use This Tool
Convert digital cross stitch patterns from design software to actual DMC thread numbers for your shopping list.
Extract dominant colors from photos and find matching DMC threads to recreate images in cross stitch or embroidery.
Look up DMC thread colors by number, browse the complete library, and plan your thread purchases by color family.
Convert entire color palettes from branding, design files, or inspiration sources to DMC threads for cohesive projects.
How It Works
Enter a HEX color code, use the color picker, or adjust RGB sliders to select your target color
The tool converts your input color to the LAB color space for perceptual color matching
The Delta E (CIE76) algorithm calculates the perceptual difference between your color and all 400+ DMC threads
Results are sorted by Delta E value - lower values indicate closer matches
Match percentage is calculated (100% - Delta E × 5) to show accuracy at a glance
View side-by-side comparison of your input color vs. the best DMC match
Browse all top 5 matches with Delta E values, match percentages, and thread details
Export matches as JSON or CSV, copy individual DMC numbers, or convert entire color palettes
100% Private
Files never leave your device. All processing happens locally in your browser.
Lightning Fast
Powered by Delta E (CIE76) color difference algorithm in LAB color space - the industry standard for perceptual color matching used by professional designers and textile manufacturers for optimal performance on modern browsers.
Secure
No data collection, no tracking, no sign-up required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Delta E and why does it matter?
Delta E (ΔE) measures the perceptual difference between two colors in the LAB color space. Unlike simple RGB comparison, Delta E accounts for how humans actually perceive color differences. A Delta E of less than 1.0 is imperceptible to the human eye, 1.0-2.0 is perceptible on close observation, 2.0-5.0 is perceptible at a glance, and greater than 5.0 is a clear color difference. Our tool uses the CIE76 Delta E formula, the industry standard for color matching in textiles and printing.
How accurate are the DMC thread matches?
The matches are highly accurate for perceptual color similarity, typically within 90-99% for close matches. However, screen colors can differ from physical thread due to monitor calibration, lighting conditions, and dye lot variations. For critical color matching, we recommend ordering a physical DMC color card and comparing threads in natural daylight. The Delta E algorithm ensures you get the closest possible mathematical match based on color science.
Can I convert colors from photos or design files?
Yes! Use the 'From Image' tab to upload any image file (JPEG, PNG, etc.). The tool will extract the 10 most dominant colors using k-means clustering and provide the top 3 DMC matches for each color. This is perfect for converting photos, artwork, or design mockups into actual thread colors for cross stitch or embroidery projects. For best results, use clear, well-lit images.
What if my exact color isn't available in DMC threads?
The tool shows you the top 5 closest matches with match percentages and Delta E values. If no single thread is perfect, you can: (1) Choose the closest match and accept a slight variation, (2) Use the second or third match if it works better in your project context, (3) Blend threads by using alternating stitches, or (4) Contact DMC to request special colors for large commercial projects. Most projects work beautifully with close matches (90%+ similarity).
How do I use the palette converter for multiple colors?
Paste multiple HEX codes into the 'Palette Converter' tab (e.g., #FF5733 #3357FF #33FF57). The tool automatically extracts all valid HEX codes and finds the best DMC match for each color. You can then export the entire palette as CSV for shopping lists, copy all DMC numbers at once to clipboard, or view side-by-side comparisons of input colors vs. DMC matches. This is perfect for converting color schemes from design software or branding guidelines.
Can I browse all DMC threads and look up specific numbers?
Absolutely! The 'DMC Library' tab contains all 400+ DMC embroidery threads with search and filter capabilities. Search by DMC number (e.g., '310'), color name (e.g., 'Black'), or description. Filter by color family (Reds, Blues, Greens, etc.) to browse specific color ranges. Click any thread to see full details including HEX, RGB values, and quick-copy buttons. This is perfect for reverse lookups when you have a DMC number and need the color details.