Introducing the .ARI format in ArahPaint6: Save images with layers
ArahPaint6 now supports its own native .ARI format, allowing users to save images with layers.
At Arahne, we’ve always used standard formats. That’s why our paint program originally saved files in .GIF, later switching to the superior .PNG format. This ensured compatibility with other drawing tools and easy sharing via email or documents.
Although layer support has existed since ArahPaint4 (over 20 years!), we resisted creating a proprietary format — because jacquard weaving ultimately requires a single, flattened image. Layers were treated as temporary editing tools, discarded upon saving.
However, real-world workflows aren’t always linear. Customers often request changes — repositioning motifs, adjusting repeats — and restoring backgrounds manually can be tedious. That’s where the new .ARI format comes in:
- Preserves layers for future edits
- Seamlessly integrates with ArahWeave — flattened view in ArahWeave, layered view in ArahPaint, no image conversion needed
- Fully integrated with recent files and image browser
⚠️ Since this feature is new, we recommend also saving a backup in .PNG to prevent any data loss. If you encounter any issues with .ARI files, please let us know — your input helps us improve.
