Photo and transparent overlays

Grid Overlay Tool

Build a precise overlay for a reference photo or export the grid by itself. Turn off the original photo before PNG export when you need a reusable transparent grid layer.

Make a grid overlay

01 / Canvas

Upload a reference image to create your drawing grid.

Upload a reference image to create your drawing grid.

Your image stays in your browser and is never uploaded.

Click upload or drag a file here

How it works

From reference to usable grid in three steps

  1. 01

    Upload a photo when you want to preview the overlay on an image.

  2. 02

    Set grid count, color, width, opacity, and optional labels.

  3. 03

    Keep the photo on, or turn it off before PNG export for an overlay-only file.

Better results

Use the grid as a guide, not a distraction

Overlay preview

See exactly how the line color and opacity read over the image.

Grid-only PNG

Turn off the photo to export the grid layer without the original image.

Flexible outputs

Use PNG for digital workflows and PDF for print references.

Useful for real art workflows

The same browser tool adapts to different media, scales, and learning contexts.

Digital art reference
Photo composition
Procreate planning
Photoshop placement

Questions

Frequently asked

Is ArtistGrid free to use?

Yes. You can upload a reference image, customize the grid, and export standard PNG, JPG, or PDF files without creating an account.

Is my reference image uploaded to a server?

No. ArtistGrid processes the image locally in your browser. The photo is used to draw the preview and export canvas, but it is not sent to an image-processing server.

Can I export only the grid?

Yes. Turn off Include photo and download PNG. The exported PNG keeps the grid while removing the original reference image.

Can I use the overlay in Procreate or Photoshop?

Yes. Import the grid-only PNG as a layer, then resize it to match the canvas. Keep the aspect ratio locked to avoid distorting cells.

What opacity should a grid overlay use?

Start around 50 to 65 percent and adjust for the image. The grid should remain visible without hiding important edges and values.

Keep exploring

Related tools and guides

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Add Grid to Photo Online

Add a custom grid to any photo online. Choose rows, columns, labels, color and opacity, then download PNG, JPG or PDF. Free and no signup.

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Proportion Grid Maker

Create a proportion grid for drawing and painting. Match rows and columns across your reference and artwork to transfer shapes accurately.

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Drawing Grid Maker Online

Make a drawing grid from any reference image. Customize rows, columns, labels, color and opacity, then download a printable PNG, JPG or PDF.

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