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Free String Art Templates & Patterns
Download free printable string art templates: numbered nail layouts for beginners and ready-made geometric & mandala thread patterns. Or upload a photo and get a fully custom pattern from your own image.
What Is a String Art Template?
A string art template is a printable guide that marks where to place the nails on your board — and, for pattern templates, how to wind a single thread between them to form a shape. Nail layouts (circle, heart, star) are blank canvases for any design; geometric and mandala patterns define a complete, mathematically exact thread path you can follow step by step. Every template below is a free PDF, sized for an 18 cm board with a 10 cm control line so you can verify the scale after printing.
Free Printable Templates
Nail Layouts for Beginners
Numbered 1:1 nail-placement guides. Print, tape to your board and hammer the nails — then build any design.
Geometric Patterns
Classic mathematical string art: connect each nail n to nail (k × n) mod 60 to weave a cardioid or related curve.
Mandala Patterns
Star-polygon patterns: from each nail, jump a fixed number of steps to form a symmetric mandala.
Letters & Words
Want a name or word in thread? See the String Art Word Generator — upload a high-contrast letter or word and get a custom pattern.
How to Use a Template
- 1Print at 100%Print the PDF at actual size (no scaling) and check the 10 cm control line with a ruler.
- 2Tape it to the boardFix the printed template flat and centered onto your wooden board.
- 3Hammer the nailsDrive a nail through each marked point so it stands about 1 cm above the board, then tear the paper away.
- 4Wind the threadFor pattern templates, follow the connection rule printed on the page. For nail layouts, follow your own design — or a photo-based sequence from the configurator.
Want a Template From Your Photo?
These ready-made patterns are a great start. For a portrait or any picture, the configurator computes a fully custom nail sequence — free preview, basic guide €0.
Create a custom patternFAQ
What is a string art template?+
A printable guide showing where to place the nails and, for pattern templates, how to wind the thread. Nail layouts work for any design; geometric and mandala patterns define a complete thread path.
Are these templates really free?+
Yes — every template here is a free printable PDF, no account or payment needed, for personal craft use.
How do I print at the right size?+
Print at 100% / actual size with no scaling, then verify the 10 cm control line with a ruler. Each template is sized for an 18 cm board.
Can I get a template from my own photo?+
Yes. The configurator turns any photo into a custom pattern with the exact nail sequence, a 1:1 template and a shopping list. Preview and basic guide are free.
Auch auf Deutsch: String-Art-Vorlagen. Related: Photo portraits · Word generator · Configurator