Canva has launched its first internally developed AI image generation model, called Canva Craft, to compete with similar technologies from Google, OpenAI, ByteDance, and Meta.
The model can generate images with readable text, accurate object details, and support for precise editing. It also allows users to turn AI-generated images into layered designs that can be edited within Canva.
Canva Craft is available to all users through the platform’s Dream Lab section, with additional support planned for external applications.
How Canva Craft Works
Canva Craft uses a two-stage process to generate images from text prompts.
In the first stage, the model analyzes the user’s instructions and creates a design plan covering object placement, relative sizes, visual hierarchy, and text positioning.
In the second stage, it generates the image based on that plan, supporting resolutions of up to 2K and 30 different aspect ratios.
According to Canva, the approach improves image accuracy and allows users to edit individual elements without affecting the rest of the image.
| Feature | Canva Craft |
|---|---|
| Maximum resolution | 2K |
| Supported aspect ratios | 30 |
| Generation process | Two stages |
| Training data | Human-designed templates |
| Text rendering | Supports readable text |
| Editing | Precise image adjustments |
| Availability | Canva Dream Lab |
| Developer access | Canva API |
Trained on Design Templates
Unlike image generation models that rely heavily on photographs, Canva trained Craft using human-created designs from its template library.
The training material includes posters, social media graphics, presentations, infographics, menus, and typography-heavy layouts.
This approach helps the model understand how text, images, and other elements should be arranged within a design.
Canva Craft also supports integration with Canva Magic, the company’s image-to-design technology, allowing generated images to be converted into editable layers.
The feature builds on Canva’s existing AI design model, which the company introduced in 2025 to understand individual design elements and layers.
ChatGPT and Gemini Integration
Canva plans to make Craft available through third-party AI assistants, including ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, using its Model Context Protocol (MCP) integration.
This would allow users to generate images through supported AI chatbots while accessing Canva’s design capabilities.
The company also plans to offer Canva Craft through its API, allowing developers to integrate the technology into their applications.
Faster Models Coming Soon
Canva is developing two additional versions of its image generation model, called Craftfast and Craft-ultrafast.
Both versions will focus on reducing generation costs and improving processing speed. The company has not announced their release dates.
Canva previously relied on multiple external AI image generation models. Developing its own technology could help reduce API expenses while giving the company greater control over image quality and performance.
Researchers from Leonardo.ai, the AI media generation platform Canva acquired in 2024, also contributed to the development of Craft.
Canva Faces Rising AI Costs
The launch comes as Canva faces increasing costs associated with AI development and infrastructure.
The company was on track to generate approximately $4 billion in revenue in 2025. However, it later reduced its growth forecast for 2026 amid concerns over rising AI expenses.
According to external analysts, Canva’s valuation reportedly declined from $42 billion to $35 billion following the revised forecast.
By developing its own image generation models, Canva aims to reduce reliance on third-party AI providers while improving performance and controlling operational costs.
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