A reference board app for the way you draw.

Put poses, photos, and notes side by side. Keep your board above your art app, then find each source image in your library.

Download refern

Decision guide

How is a reference board different from a moodboard?

A reference board holds the images you study while making art. A moodboard shows the look or feel you want to create. With refern, you can arrange images, add notes, and keep the board in view as you draw.

How do you make a reference board?

  1. Add a folder of your own images to a workspace.
  2. Pick a small set for one task, such as a pose study.
  3. Place the images on a canvas. Group poses, light, and details.
  4. Add short notes about what you want to study.
  5. Pin the board above your drawing app so it stays in view.
  6. Use the library to find each source image for your next project.

Good fit when

  • You want poses and detail shots beside your drawing window.
  • You want to find and reuse the same images in later projects.

Consider another tool when

  • You need an online reference board with no desktop install.
  • You need a free app with no trial limit or paid license.

Verified product facts

Canvas
Arrange images, add notes, and draw on a canvas. Keep it above your art app. Window transparency and click-through controls are available on Windows and macOS; current Linux controls are limited.
Search
Find files by text, tags, or color. Use search filters, look for similar images, or find copies of the same image.
Trial
Try the app free for 30 days. Then a $35 one-time license unlocks it. Your files and workspace data stay on disk when the trial ends.
Desktop platforms
Desktop builds are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Before you download.

Everything you might want to know, answered.