Standalone tool
Fan Chart Maker
Use this interactive standalone tool to create a printable genealogy fan chart directly in your browser. You can enter names, birth years, and death years, add or remove generations, adjust font sizes, force line breaks in names, and preview the chart instantly while you work.
When finished, the chart can be exported as a high-quality printable JPEG image. You can also export and import chart data (as JSON) to save your work and continue editing later by simply importing it back.
This is only a DEMO version embedded into this page. The full version is delivered as a standalone .html file and works offline without internet connectivity after download. The demo version limits editing: only father-side ancestor fields are editable, while mother-side ancestor fields are marked as "Not available in DEMO."
You can download standalone demo version here or try out full screen demo. Instructions for this tool are available here. There is also example data you can try to import.
If you find this interesting you can download full version here.
Notice that full version tool is full screen. Embedded demo in this page forced to fit the page content.
What is this tool for?
Fan Chart Maker is a practical genealogy tool for creating clean and visually balanced ancestor fan charts directly in your browser. It allows you to build a structured multi-generation family history chart with instant live preview while entering names and years.
The tool focuses on simplicity, readability, and consistent layout. Ancestors are automatically arranged into a traditional fan chart structure without requiring manual positioning, drawing, or formatting. The chart stays aligned and printable even as more generations are added.
Each person includes editable fields for full name, birth year, and death year. The chart supports between 3 and 7 generations and preserves empty ancestor segments to maintain a consistent genealogy structure even when information is missing.
You can adjust ancestor font sizes, separately control the center person font size, and force manual line breaks inside names when needed. The preview updates instantly while editing, making it easy to create a readable and balanced final result.
To start, simply open the standalone HTML file in your browser. Enter names and years on the left side and the fan chart updates automatically on the right. When finished, export the chart as a high-resolution JPEG image ready for printing or sharing. You can also export and import genealogy data as JSON files to continue editing later.
This tool works offline and does not require installation, subscriptions, or any additional software. No Excel, Word, or online account is needed. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers and works in modern web browsers.
JPEG exports are high quality 6600 × 5100 px and include a white print-ready background. The chart is designed for landscape printing on US Letter or A4 paper and is also suitable for larger print sizes up to approximately 22 × 17 inches.
This tool is suitable for genealogy research, documenting family history, creating ancestry displays, preparing reunion materials, or producing a meaningful printable family record.
Frequently asked questions
What is a genealogy fan chart?
A genealogy fan chart is a circular ancestor tree layout that displays parents, grandparents, and earlier generations in expanding fan-shaped segments around a central person.
How many generations can this fan chart maker create?
The tool supports between 3 and 7 generations. You can add or remove generations at any time while editing the chart.
Can I edit all names and years in the chart?
Yes. Each person has editable fields for full name, birth year, and death year. The demo version limits editing to father-side ancestors only.
Does the fan chart maker work offline?
Yes. The full version is a standalone HTML file that works directly in your browser without installation or internet connectivity.
Can I save my genealogy data and continue later?
Yes. The tool supports exporting and importing genealogy data as JSON files so you can continue editing later without losing your work.
What size is the exported fan chart image?
The chart exports as a high-quality 6600 × 5100 pixel JPEG image with a white background suitable for printing.
Can I print the exported genealogy fan chart?
Yes. The exported JPEG is designed for landscape printing on US Letter or A4 paper and is also suitable for larger print sizes.
What happens if some ancestors are unknown?
Unknown ancestors remain as blank placeholder segments so the overall genealogy structure and spacing stay consistent.