Crossword Grid Generator
Click any cell to toggle it black. Symmetry is enforced automatically. Cell numbers are assigned by standard crossword rules. Download the finished grid as an SVG for print or design software. Nothing uploaded.
Grid (click a cell to toggle black)
Learn more: Crossword symmetry and grid construction
Why symmetry matters and why it's hard to maintain manually
American crossword tradition requires 180-degree rotational symmetry - every black square has a matching partner at the diagonally opposite position. Maintaining this by hand while clicking cells is error-prone. One wrong click can violate symmetry without immediate feedback.
How symmetry is enforced automatically
The generator enforces symmetry automatically. Click any cell and its symmetrical partner is toggled simultaneously. The result is always a valid American-style grid. Switch to horizontal mirror, vertical mirror, or asymmetric mode for British or freestyle grids.
Blank grid to professional export
Set grid size (5×5 to 21×21 in odd increments) and symmetry type. Click cells to toggle black, and auto-numbering and word counts update live. Download the finished grid as SVG for import into InDesign, Illustrator, or Affinity Publisher to add clue text.
Professional design workflow
The SVG export is a standard vector file that imports cleanly into all major design software. This is far better than screenshots or PDF exports for professional puzzle layouts where you need to add clues, adjust typography, and print with precision.
Frequently asked questions
Every black square has a matching partner at the diagonally opposite position (rotated 180° around the centre). The generator enforces this automatically - click any cell and its symmetrical partner toggles too.
Numbers go to each white cell that starts an Across or Down entry. The generator applies standard numbering rules automatically as you add black squares.
Yes. The SVG imports cleanly into Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Affinity Publisher, and Canva for adding clue text in a professional layout.