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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about using VariantLab.

Getting Started​

What is VariantLab?​

VariantLab is an AI-powered tool that transforms a single image into a collection of unique variations. It uses Google's Gemini AI to generate images, detect traits, create variations, and combine layers into final compositions.

How do I get started?​

  1. Sign up at app.variantlab.ai
  2. Create a project
  3. Write a prompt and generate a base image
  4. Follow the 5-stage pipeline: Setup → Detection → Variations → Combine → Export

See Quick Start for a complete guide.

Do I need to install anything?​

No. VariantLab is a web application that runs in your browser. No downloads or installations required.

Credits and Billing​

What is Mana?​

Mana is VariantLab's credit system. Every AI operation costs a fixed amount of Mana depending on the model and settings you choose.

How much does it cost?​

  • Image generation: ~1.5 - ~8 Mana depending on model and settings
  • Trait detection: ~1 - ~3 Mana depending on trait count
  • Variations: ~1.5 - ~8 Mana depending on model
  • Combinations: 1 Mana per 100
  • Export: 1 Mana per 100 files

See Mana Costs for complete pricing.

Do credits expire?​

No. Mana credits never expire and remain in your account until used.

Can I get a refund?​

Mana purchases are generally non-refundable. Failed operations are automatically credited back. Contact support for exceptional circumstances.

Projects and Images​

How many projects can I create?​

There is no limit on the number of projects.

How many base images per project?​

Up to 5 base images per project. You select one as the "favorite" to use for the pipeline.

Can I upload my own images?​

Yes. You can upload PNG, JPEG, WebP, or GIF images. Upload works alongside AI generation.

How many traits can I have?​

Up to 10 traits per project.

How many variations per trait?​

Up to 5 variation prompts per trait, each with up to 5 variants (regenerations).

How many combinations can I generate?​

Theoretically unlimited, but costs scale at 1 Mana per 100 combinations. Use limits and favorites to keep it manageable.

Can I share projects with others?​

Yes. Invite collaborators by email from the Share button in the project header. Assign Editor (can edit and generate) or Viewer (read-only) roles. See Project Sharing.

Can I publish my project as a template?​

Yes. From project settings, click "Publish to Gallery." Add a description and tags so others can find it. They can browse and fork your template. See Template Gallery.

Can I copy images when forking a template?​

Yes. When forking, toggle "Base Images", "Masks", or "Variations" to include them. Images are copied in the background — your new project is created immediately.

Technical Questions​

What AI models are used?​

VariantLab supports multiple AI models:

  • Gemini 2.5 Flash Image - Fast image generation
  • Gemini 3 Pro Image Preview - High-quality generation (up to 4K)
  • FLUX 2 Pro - High-fidelity image generation
  • GPT Image 1 / 1.5 - OpenAI image generation
  • Imagen 4 / Imagen 4 Ultra - Google Imagen generation
  • SeedReam 4.5 - Google SeedReam generation
  • Gemini 2.5 Flash - Trait detection

What image formats are supported?​

  • Input: PNG, JPEG, WebP, GIF
  • Output: PNG, SVG, PSD

What's the maximum image resolution?​

  • Flash model: 1024px
  • Pro model: Up to 4096px (4K)

Do you store my images?​

Yes. Images are stored securely to enable the pipeline workflow. Images are associated with your account and not shared publicly.

Troubleshooting​

My generation failed. Was I charged?​

No. Failed operations are automatically refunded. Check your transaction history to verify.

Why is detection inaccurate?​

AI detection isn't perfect. Improve results by:

  • Writing more specific detection prompts
  • Manually refining masks with brush/eraser
  • Ensuring clear contrast between traits

Why do my combinations look wrong?​

Check:

  • Layer order in Detection (back to front)
  • Mask accuracy (clean edges)
  • Correct layers favorited

Export is taking too long​

Large exports take time. Progress is shown in the UI. For very large collections, consider exporting in batches.

Account​

How do I change my email?​

Contact support to update your account email.

How do I delete my account?​

Go to Settings > Account and click "Delete Account." This is permanent and cannot be undone.

Is my data secure?​

Yes. We use industry-standard security practices including encrypted connections and secure payment processing via Stripe.

Still Have Questions?​