Paste a whole list
Use your own vocabulary, names, facts, or themed answers. The input automatically recognizes common separators.
Free Crossword Generator
Turn your own words and clues into a printable crossword with a separate answer key. Review the layout, regenerate it when needed, and download a clean PDF—no signup required.
Free to use · No signup · Answer key included · US Letter & A4
Create your crossword
0 / 40 valid
Add one answer and clue per line. Separate them with a vertical bar, comma, or tab.
Recommended: 8–20 pairs · Preview updates automatically
- Add at least 5 valid answer-and-clue pairs.
Worksheet options
Your manually entered words and clues stay in this browser.
This tool creates a freeform crossword from your answers and clues. It does not automatically fill a newspaper-style grid.
Puzzle preview
Your crossword will appear here
Add at least five valid answer-and-clue pairs. The puzzle and answer key will update automatically.
From word list to ready-to-print puzzle
Paste a complete list instead of filling dozens of separate fields. The generator builds the grid, numbers the clues, and keeps the puzzle and solution together for printing.
Know what fit
See exactly which answers were placed. Nothing is dropped without a clear notice.
Print with answers
Create a clean puzzle copy and a separate answer key in US Letter or A4 format.
Built for lessons, activities, and personal puzzles
Create vocabulary review for a class, a themed activity for a party, or a personal crossword for friends and family. You control every answer and clue; the generator handles the layout.
How to make a crossword
Add your answers and clues
Paste one pair per line. Keep answers concise and use clear clues that match the intended audience.
Generate and review the grid
Check the Across and Down lists, confirm which answers were placed, and regenerate if you want a different layout.
Print or download
Hide the answers for the puzzle copy, keep the separate answer key, then print or download the PDF.
Use the same words in another puzzle
Looking for answers to an existing puzzle? A crossword solver works in the opposite direction; this page creates a new puzzle from your own list.
Crossword Generator FAQ
Is this crossword generator free?
Yes. You can create, preview, print, and download a custom crossword without signing up.
Can I make a crossword from my own words?
Yes. Add your own answers and clues, one pair per line. The generator arranges as many answers as possible into one connected freeform grid.
What kind of crossword does this tool create?
It creates a custom freeform crossword from the answers and clues you provide. It does not automatically fill every open square or build a publication-style symmetric grid.
Does the puzzle include an answer key?
Yes. A separate answer key is created with every puzzle and can be shown, hidden, printed, or downloaded.
What happens if not all words fit?
The generator shows how many answers were placed and lists the unused entries. Try another layout, add words that share more letters, or remove the hardest-to-fit answers.
Can I use phrases?
Yes. Spaces, hyphens, and apostrophes can be preserved in the displayed answer while the grid uses letters only.
Can I make a crossword for kids?
Yes. Use short, familiar answers and direct clues, then turn on Large Print for bigger cells and easier reading.
Is this a crossword solver?
No. This tool creates new crosswords from your words and clues. A crossword solver helps find answers for an existing puzzle.