Understanding preview generation
Preview generation is the core processing service that converts customer photos into custom art kit patterns. Every time a customer uploads an image for their order, Instant Art Kit processes that image through sophisticated algorithms to create preview images, print files, and pattern charts.
What happens during preview generation?
When you generate a preview, the system performs several complex operations:
- Image analysis: Analyze the uploaded image for quality, size, and format
- Color quantization: Reduce millions of colors to a manageable palette (DMC for diamond painting)
- Dithering: Apply error diffusion algorithms for smooth color transitions
- Pattern generation: Create symbol-based or numbered pattern grids
- File creation: Generate Excel files, PDFs, preview images, and color charts
All of this happens in seconds, powered by our high-performance image processing engine.
Preview generation process
For the customer
- Customer clicks the upload button on your product page
- They upload their image and adjust the crop
- They click “Generate Preview”
- Within seconds, they see what their finished art kit will look like
- They can regenerate with different settings or sizes
- When satisfied, they add to cart and checkout
Behind the scenes
When “Generate Preview” is clicked:
- Image received - We receive the uploaded image securely
- Settings applied - Your product’s configuration determines canvas size, color count, etc.
- Processing starts - Our algorithms analyze and convert the image
- Preview created - A web-optimized preview is generated
- Preview returned - Customer sees the result in seconds
Processing speed
Most previews generate in 2-5 seconds, depending on the canvas size and color complexity. Larger canvases with more colors take slightly longer but are still completed within seconds.
Optimizing the customer experience
Product settings
Configure each product with appropriate settings:
- Canvas sizes - Offer sizes your supplier can produce
- Stone types - For diamond paintings, specify round or square drills
Quality expectations
Set clear expectations for customers:
- Recommend high-resolution source images (at least 1000x1000 pixels)
- Show sample results in your product descriptions
- Explain that complex images with many colors produce better results
Frequently asked questions
How long does preview generation take?
Most previews generate in 2-5 seconds. Production files take 30-60 seconds and are processed in the background after the order is placed.
Is there a limit on preview generations?
No. During beta, customers can generate unlimited previews. You only pay when they complete a purchase.
What image formats are supported?
Instant Art Kit supports JPEG, PNG, and WebP formats. We recommend JPEG for photos.
What happens if preview generation fails?
If preview generation fails (usually due to an invalid or corrupted image), the customer is prompted to try again with a different image. Failed previews don’t affect your billing.
Can customers save their preview and come back later?
Previews are stored temporarily during the session. If a customer leaves and comes back, they may need to regenerate the preview. Completed orders always have their files retained according to the retention policy.