DNA Painter
Verified working Aug 3, 2026
Visual tools for turning DNA matches into family-history clues.
DNA Painter helps genealogists interpret DNA match information through chromosome maps, relationship calculators, and family-tree-based probability tools. Users can map shared DNA segments to known ancestors, explore possible relationships from shared centimorgan amounts, and build visual pages for direct ancestors.
Why it stands out
- Focuses specifically on the interpretive step after DNA testing, rather than selling tests or hosting record collections.
- Combines segment mapping, shared-cM interpretation, and tree-based hypothesis testing in one genealogy-focused workspace.
- Includes learning materials and walkthroughs aimed at users who are new to chromosome mapping.
- The example chromosome map lets visitors try the interface without saving or risking their own data.
Good to know
- Requires DNA match information from another testing or matching service; it is not itself a DNA testing company.
- Some workflows depend on having known matches that can be placed into a family tree.
- The site explicitly asks users not to send raw DNA by email, so support is not a place to transfer genetic files.
- Free registration is available, but the site also offers subscriptions, so some capabilities may sit behind paid access.
Under the radar: Use the example chromosome map on the homepage to try moving and deleting segments; changes are not saved, so it is a safe way to learn the mapping workflow before creating your own map.
Photos
Genetic genealogists with autosomal DNA matches can map segments and test relationship hypotheses. Compare shared cM amounts to narrow down how a new DNA match may relate. Use WATO plus to evaluate competing family-tree scenarios for an unknown parentage or mystery match case. Create a searchable direct-ancestor page enriched with attributes such as birthplace, religion, or age at death. Practice chromosome mapping before committing personal research data to an account.
Chromosome mapping for assigning DNA segments to ancestors; Shared cM tool for relationship possibilities; WATO plus for probability-based family mystery analysis; direct-ancestor visualization pages; standalone genetic genealogy tools, guides, webinars, blog posts, and an example map for experimentation.
Alternative listings
Desktop family-tree software linked to MyHeritage records and matches.
Genealogy & family-history researchFamily Tree Builder is MyHeritage’s downloadable genealogy program for building and managing a visual family tree. It supports GEDCOM import, photos, charts, reports, maps, privacy controls, and syncing with MyHeritage’s online family sites and mobile apps.
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Genealogy & family-history researchGeni is a web-based family tree builder that connects individual family research into a large shared genealogy graph. Users can create profiles, invite relatives, upload family media, cite sources, join research projects, and search hundreds of millions of profiles for possible connections.
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Similar sites elsewhere
- GEDmatch — gedmatch.com
- Genetic Affairs — geneticaffairs.com
- FamilyTreeDNA — familytreedna.com
- MyHeritage DNA — myheritage.com/dna
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