Sketch to Image

Sketch to Image combines two inputs: a drawing and a text prompt. As you draw on the canvas, the AI continuously reads your sketch and the prompt together to produce a result. You do not need to click Generate. The output updates as you work. Open Sketch to Image to get started.

In this article

• How it works
• Create your first sketch
• Canvas tools
• The Imagination slider
• Writing a good prompt
• Refining your result
• Downloading and sharing
• Credits and plans
• Usage rights
• Tips and best practices

How it works

Sketch to Image reads two things at the same time: what you draw on the canvas and what you describe in the text prompt. The AI combines both to generate an image that updates in real time as you make changes.

The Imagination slider controls the balance between your sketch and the AI. Pull it toward structure and the output follows your drawing closely. Pull it toward imagination and the AI takes more creative freedom, adding details, textures, and elements based on the prompt.

You do not need to be a good artist. Simple shapes, rough outlines, and even dragging icons from the library are enough to guide the AI. The prompt handles the rest.

Create your first sketch

Canvas tools

The left panel gives you several ways to add content to the canvas.

The Imagination slider

The Imagination slider is the most important control in Sketch to Image. It determines how much the AI adds on its own versus how strictly it follows your drawing.

Start in the middle and adjust as you go. If the output is too literal, push toward imagination. If the AI is ignoring your drawing, pull toward structure.

Writing a good prompt

The prompt guides the style, mood, and content of the generated image. Here is what to include for the best results.

You do not need to include all of these every time. Even a short prompt like "a cat in a garden, watercolor" works. But more detail gives the AI more to work with, especially when your sketch is simple.

Refining your result

Sketch to Image is designed for iteration. Keep adjusting until you get what you want.

• Add more detail to your sketch. The AI responds to every stroke. Adding a line, shape, or icon can shift the output significantly.
• Change a word in your prompt. Swapping an adjective or adding a style reference often produces a very different result.
• Move the Imagination slider. Small adjustments can make a big difference in how the AI interprets your input.
• Use Quick enhance. When the composition is right, click Quick enhance to add sharpness, detail, and polish to the final image.

Downloading and sharing

When you are satisfied with the result, you have two download options.

• Download the image. Save the final generated image to your device.
• Download a playback video. Save a screen recording of your entire creation process, from the first stroke to the final result. Available in horizontal and vertical formats, ready for social media.

Credits and plans

For a full breakdown of credit costs, see AI credits and limits.

Usage rights

Images generated with Sketch to Image can be used for personal and commercial purposes, provided they do not infringe on third-party rights. All AI-generated content is subject to Freepik's Terms of Use for AI Products. Avoid generating images that reproduce real people's likenesses, brand identities, or other protected elements without authorization. For more details, see AI content and copyright.

Tips and best practices

Draw shapes, not stick figures. The AI understands shapes and compositions better than detailed line art. A rough circle for a head and a rectangle for a body works better than a detailed stick figure.

Use the icons library when drawing is hard. Drag pre-made shapes and icons onto the canvas to set up a scene quickly. The AI integrates them into the final image.

Start with a detailed prompt, then sketch loosely. The prompt carries most of the creative weight. Your sketch guides composition and placement.

Upload an existing image for a head start. Import a photo or illustration as a base, then sketch on top of it and describe the transformation you want.

Try the webcam for fun experiments. The AI transforms your live camera feed in real time. Move objects around and watch the output change.

Save the playback video. The creation process is often more interesting than the final image. The playback video captures every step and makes great social media content.

Enhance last. Get the composition and style right first, then use Quick enhance for the final polish. Enhancing too early locks you into a direction.