RefCanvas

RefCanvas

Reference Board

6 ratings
5 reviews
Free
In-App Purchases

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • April 11, 2023
  • February 3, 2026

Features

RefCanvas screenshot #1 for iPhone
RefCanvas screenshot #2 for iPhone
RefCanvas screenshot #3 for iPhone
RefCanvas screenshot #4 for iPhone
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About

This app helps artists and designers organize visual references for their projects. Import images and GIFs, arrange them on a canvas, add notes, and export your creations.

Import images and GIFs
Add text notes
Move, scale, and rotate references
Group references with nodes
Supports split screen and pop-up view
Export boards as SVG or images
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What's New in RefCanvas

1.30

February 3, 2026

Packing: Optimally/Vertical/Horizontal (optional packing on import) Export references: separately (multiple in zip) Export board as SVG (or selected only) Better Nodes - More customization. Added webp support. Fixed order saving. Added connections - connect references/nodes etc. Drawing. (experimental) Multiple bug fixes and improvements.

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3

In-App Purchases

$3.99

Pro version

One time payment to unlock all the features.

User reviews

Highly recommended for artist

Although the app’s icon can put people off due to it being ai generated, the app itself is very good. Though I do wish that when I move the node (as I like to categorise them to make things easier to group in) doesn’t overlap with other node and thus causing them to go into one of the box and have to organise them again. Hopefully the creator fix this by us being able to stabilise it so it doesn’t clip with other node.
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It’s very limited

I got this app to work on an art project, and found out really quickly that the amount of pictures that you could upload were very few, and were not enough for me to do some basic reference work.

Of course you could buy the upgraded version, but it feels like a waste of money, especially if you’re just using it to compile pictures.
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Great free alternative

Hated scrolling through reference images saved on my phone and just wanted it all in one place to look at while I draw. Great to have them all organized by board too so I can come back when I need to. Not sure why other ratings are low. There are limitations and paywalls, but for average use, this app is perfect.
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Does not work correctly with current iOS

Paste doesn’t work. Import from gallery goes through an extra privacy dialog. I suspect the app has not been updated to trigger/request privacy permissions, and is thus blocked from the clipboard and direct access to the gallery.

‼️🗣️🗣️ we drawing daily with this one

one complaint is the ai thumbnail, it’s not that hard just to commission an artist to draw a logo for you.
it makes your app look more professional too. js would draw u a logo if u pinky swore to never use ai !!
but anyway ‼️‼️‼️‼️ this app is really good, reminds me exactly of pure ref and that was what I was wanting!
you can shrink and grow your images, and links to them and ofc you must save b4 u leave the canvas.
just started using the app so no issues so far, but if I turn up dead in a few days lmk gang <3
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FAQ

What can I import into RefCanvas?

RefCanvas allows you to import images and animated GIFs. You can also paste files from your clipboard and drag and drop files from other apps like your gallery.

Can I use RefCanvas with other drawing apps?

Yes, RefCanvas supports split screen and pop-up view, making it ideal for use as a companion app with your favorite drawing applications such as Ibis Paint or Infinite Painter.

What export options are available in RefCanvas?

You can export your boards to share them with others. Specific export options include exporting the board as an SVG file, or exporting individual images and GIFs as files.

Does RefCanvas have ads?

No, RefCanvas does not contain advertisements. It is a free app with optional in-app purchases.

How does RefCanvas handle animated GIFs?

RefCanvas supports animated GIFs, allowing you to reference them directly. You can pause animations and play them frame by frame, and an animation timeline provides a visual breakdown of all frames.

What are the basic editing tools in RefCanvas?

Basic editing tools include the ability to move, scale, and rotate references. You can also select multiple references for simultaneous editing, and group them using nodes.

How is my progress saved in RefCanvas?

Your progress is saved as boards, which you can access for future use. The app also automatically sets thumbnails for your boards after saving, making them easy to identify.

What is the age rating for RefCanvas?

RefCanvas has an age rating of 4+, making it suitable for a wide range of users including younger artists and designers.