Pixelated array light emitters are formed with closely-spaced pixels having ultra-smooth sidewalk. In methods for making such pixelated array light emitters, a converter layer of phosphor particles dispersed in a binder is disposed on a carrier, and then singulated by saw cuts or similar methods to form an array of phosphor pixels. The binder is fully cured prior to singulation of the converter layer. Further, the carrier is rigid rather than flexible. As a consequence of fully curing the binder and of using a rigid carrier to support the converter layer, singulation results in phosphor pixels having smooth side walls. The array of phosphor pixels is subsequently attached to a corresponding array of LEDs with an adhesive layer, separate from the binder used to form the converter layer. The pixel sidewalls may be formed with controlled morphology, for example at acute or obtuse angles with respect to the carrier.