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SAI PSD
File conversion

Convert SAI to PSD

Verified by Adam B.· reviewed by FE Editorial ·updated Sep 11, 2026
QUICK ANSWER
Is it possible to convert SAI to PSD?
Yes - SAI converts to PSD.

Open your .sai file in PaintTool SAI and choose File > Export As > PSD. Raster layers, blend modes and opacities transfer intact to the resulting file, which opens with layers in Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint or GIMP.

1 programs
Also to PSD: PSDT · PSB · AFPHOTO

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Tested on macOS, Windows & Linux
Last verified Oct 2026

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Why convert SAI to PSD?

No major image editor can open a .sai file directly, but all of them read .psd with layers intact. Artists convert to share a working layered file with collaborators who do not have SAI, or to continue editing in Photoshop or Clip Studio Paint.

How to convert SAI to PSD

Paint Tool SAI APP

Open the .sai file, go to File > Export As and select PSD. The resulting .psd retains all raster layers with their blend modes and opacities.

Programs that convert SAI

Paint Tool SAI

About these formats

.SAI PaintTool SAI Image

A SAI file is a layered painting document created by PaintTool SAI, a digital art program from SYSTEMAX Software Development. Only PaintTool SAI can open it - no other mainstream app reads…

Open .SAI details →
.PSD Adobe Photoshop Document

A PSD file is an Adobe Photoshop Document - the editable, layered working file behind an image, keeping every layer, mask, text and adjustment separate for further editing. Open it in Adobe…

Open .PSD details →

Quality & what to watch

  • SAI's vector/linework layers (control points, pen pressure) are rasterized to pixels on PSD export - keep the original .sai if you need to re-edit linework.
  • Normal raster layers and blend modes such as Multiply, Screen and Luminosity transfer correctly and map to Photoshop equivalents.
  • The exported .psd opens with layers intact in Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint and GIMP.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open a SAI-exported PSD in GIMP?
Yes - GIMP reads PSD and preserves the layer stack from a SAI export.
Are SAI's vector layers kept in the PSD?
No - SAI's vector/linework layers are merged to raster pixels on export; only raster layers survive with blend modes intact.
Is there a free tool that converts SAI to PSD?
No - the .sai format is proprietary and encrypted; PaintTool SAI itself is the only reliable option, though a free 31-day trial is available from systemax.jp.
Can I edit the PSD in Clip Studio Paint?
Yes - Clip Studio Paint supports PSD import with layer structure preserved.