Photorealistic renders from PolyBoard and StairDesigner

This tutorial will explain the process for converting your PolyBoard and StairDesigner projects into photorealistic images using our CabinetRender and StairRender AI tools. These are available from your Wood Designer account page.

The PolyBoard examples below will give you an idea of what’s possible, click to enlarge:

And here are two stairs rendered from StairDesigner models, click to enlarge:

AI is a game changer. It has brought stunning photo renders within easy reach of any workshop, whatever the size. The process is faster and more flexible than traditional rendering software and is now very low cost or even free. Perfect for:

• Detail-rich visual presentations for your clients
• Modifications in real time: update textures, hardware and lighting
• Practically instantaneous marketing content
• Enhancing the perceived value of your designs
• Supplying installers with a clear visualisation of the project

How to use CabinetRender and StairRender

Prepare your PolyBoard or StairDesigner projects

Before you create a render, it is important that you start with a well organised and clean PolyBoard or StairDesigner model. Remove any elements that are not necessary to the final visual of your project including construction aids and placement references.

Make sure that you have applied accurate material textures to your project as this will guide the AI and allow it to improve the realism of your project.

Once you’ve completed your project, take a high quality screenshot that clearly displays the total design. Use Windows built in Snipping tool or a free or paid application with these points in mind:

• Choose an angle that best showcases the project
• Ensure the image is clearly lit, and avoids overly dark views
• All elements to be displayed are visible
• Avoid unnecessary clutter or views of other computer applications

Upload your image

Once you have your screenshot, upload it via the ‘Add photos & files’ option.

Alternatively, copy and paste directly into CabinetRender or StairRender.

Once uploaded, click on the ‘Send prompt’ up arrow button to create a realistic render from your image without changing any details in the uploaded screenshot.

Although you can include written instructions along with a screenshot as part of the initial prompt, we recommend starting with an image-only prompt. Consider additional prompts after you’ve reviewed the first render.

Below are some example renders, created from the project screenshots we showed above:

Download and save your renders

Once your render is complete, click on the image to select it and to confirm it has been processed as required.

Once you are happy with your image, you have new options available:

• Aspect ratio: generate a new image in a chosen aspect ratio
• Share: to the available 3rd party platforms
• Download: save the render to your personal device

Modifying your renders

Once you have uploaded your generated render, you can then further prompt the AI to make adjustments.

First select your image; the following options are now available:

• Select: allows you to highlight specific areas of your project so the AI knows what elements you want adjusted
• Describe edits: this is where you add a prompt detailing your desired changes

When prompting the AI, be very clear and specific about what you want; describe:

• Lighting conditions: warm lighting, shadows, natural light
• Materials and finishes: changes in grain directions, colors and surfaces
• The environment: modern kitchen, showroom project, interior setting

Additionally, the AI can be used to request changes such as:

• Adding handles
• Replacing or changing textures and materials
• Adding background scenes, for example through the windows
• Adding extra decorative effects like items on a shelf or table

Clear and well structured prompts result in more predictable high quality outputs. If needed, you can refine a prompt over multiple requests. All images and supporting documentation for your adjustments can be uploaded in the same way as your screenshots, or simply describe what you want.

Once changes are prompted, your new image will be rendered.

Additional tips and advice

To get the most out of CabinetRender and StairRender, we recommend the following:

• Start a new chat for each project to keep your results focused and consistent
• Be aware of limitations and don’t expect the impossible (complete complex elements in your design software)
• Avoid overcomplicated prompts; keep instructions short, view the results then prompt again
• Always highlight individual changes with the selection tool
• Keep practicing; speaking to AI is a skill that can be developed and improved upon
• Remember, AI makes mistakes, don’t rely on a render without carefully reviewing the output before sharing with clients

When changing textures, we recommend providing a specific image file so the tool knows exactly what you require. For example, below we have modified a home library with an Egger material.

We changed the handles too.

Here is a stair rendered with two alternative materials.

When using StairRender, images are generated with a grey background by default, although alternative backgrounds can be requested.

If you’d like your images to include a room backdrop, you can export your model from StairDesigner in 3DS or 3D DXF format, then create the environment in third-party software before uploading it to StairRender.

How to get started

CabinetRender and StairRender are available for use via your Premium Support account page. They are provided at no extra cost and are built on the ChatGPT platform.

Please note, if you require more images than your free allocation, you will need to take out a paid subscription directly with ChatGPT if you don’t already have one.

This technology is developing at pace. It is absolutely possible to use your own favourite AI tool to produce similar renders. We have provided these tools to highlight what’s possible, and to make things a little easier for you, especially if you are new to some of the benefits of AI powered images.

Please think twice before paying for expensive software to do this. If it is any good, it will be using a recognised AI tool in the background in any case.