
Paint Tool SAI is a popular software for digital artists. However, users often encounter a memory load error or not enough memory message, which can be frustrating and hinder the creative process. This issue is related to the software's memory allocation and usage, with the 32-bit version limited to allocating up to 4GB of RAM. The more recent SAI2 version has a 64-bit variant that can utilize all available RAM and offers a significantly larger maximum canvas size. Users have also suggested methods to optimize memory usage, such as reducing the canvas size, minimizing the number of layers, and regularly cleaning up unused files and programs on their devices.
How to reserve more RAM for Paint Tool SAI
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Memory Usage Bar | Refers to the RAM available on your device. Creating a canvas fills up the memory usage bar, so creating a smaller canvas will use less RAM. |
| 32-bit version | Can only allocate up to 4GB of RAM at once. |
| 64-bit version | Has a maximum canvas size of 100,000 x 100,000 pixels and will use all the RAM available. |
| Freeing up memory | Delete unused applications and files to free up memory. |
| CPU usage | The progressing memory of Paint Tool SAI is linked to the CPU usage of your device. |
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What You'll Learn

Download the 64-bit version of SAI2 to increase RAM usage
If you want to increase the RAM usage in Paint Tool SAI, you should download the 64-bit version of SAI2. This is because 64-bit applications can use more memory than 32-bit ones. The 64-bit version of SAI2 has a maximum canvas size of 100,000 x 100,000 pixels, and it will use all the RAM you have.
You can download SAI2 as a zip file from DeviantArt. Once you have downloaded the zip file, you will need to extract all the files and folders. Then, run sai2.exe directly in the folder of extracted files.
It is important to note that the distribution is not an installer model, so you will need to manage file associations and shortcuts for sai2.exe yourself.
If you have a license for SAI Ver.1, you can use your software user license for the technical preview version of SAI Ver.2. To do this, you will need to reissue your license and download your license agreement again from the Systemax website.
By following these steps, you can download the 64-bit version of SAI2 and increase the RAM usage for Paint Tool SAI.
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Reduce the number of layers in your artwork
To reserve more RAM for Paint Tool SAI, one effective method is to reduce the number of layers in your artwork. Layers can quickly consume memory resources, so optimising their usage is crucial for managing memory load. Here are some detailed instructions to help you reduce layer usage and reserve more RAM:
Firstly, it is important to understand the layer limit in Paint Tool SAI. The software has a maximum layer limit of 256 layers per canvas. Keeping track of the number of layers you're using is essential to avoid hitting this limit. You can do this by periodically checking the number of layers in your Layers palette or by monitoring your memory usage through the Task Manager.
Next, limit and categorise your layers efficiently. Assign specific functions to each layer, such as sketch, line art, colour, and effects. This helps streamline your workflow and prevents unnecessary layer creation. Always try to merge and delete unwanted layers. For example, if you've added a new layer for a specific effect, merge it with the base layer once you're satisfied with the result. This reduces the overall layer count and frees up memory.
Additionally, consider using folders to organise and manage multiple layers. Grouping related layers into folders can help you keep track of their purpose and make it easier to locate and edit specific layer groups. This also helps with memory management, as you can easily identify and delete unused or redundant layers within these folders.
Another strategy is to flatten layers when possible. If you have a complex artwork with numerous layers, try to identify sections that can be flattened without compromising the overall design. By merging and flattening these layers, you can significantly reduce memory usage while still retaining the desired visual outcome.
Finally, if you're working on a large-scale project that requires an extensive number of layers, consider using a more robust software application alongside Paint Tool SAI. While SAI is excellent for its ease of use and simplicity, more advanced software may offer better memory management and layer handling for intricate projects.
By following these steps and optimising your layer usage, you can effectively reduce the number of layers in your artwork, thereby reserving more RAM for Paint Tool SAI and improving your overall workflow.
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Avoid creating large canvases
When using Paint Tool SAI, you may encounter a "Not enough memory" error, especially when working with large canvases. To avoid this issue and reserve more RAM, it is advisable to avoid creating large canvases.
Large canvases consume more memory, and Paint Tool SAI has limitations on how much memory it can utilise. The software may only be able to allocate a certain amount of memory at once, leading to the "Not enough memory" error.
By keeping your canvas size smaller, you can reduce memory usage and prevent this error from occurring. For example, a canvas size of 1024x1024 px or even 450 x 450 px for pixel art is sufficient for many digital artworks. If you are creating pixel art, you don't need a large canvas, as you will be working with individual pixels.
Additionally, consider whether you need a high-resolution canvas. A lower resolution, such as 300 dpi, can help reduce memory usage while still allowing you to create detailed artwork. If you are primarily sharing your work digitally, a lower resolution may be more than adequate.
It is worth noting that if you plan to print your artwork onto large posters and your work is highly detailed, you may need to consider increasing the canvas size and resolution. However, for most digital artwork, a smaller canvas size is sufficient and will help you avoid memory issues when using Paint Tool SAI.
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Close all other applications to free up memory
One of the easiest ways to free up RAM is to close any applications that you are not using. This includes applications that are running in the background without your knowledge. By closing these applications, you can reduce the load on your RAM and potentially improve the performance of your device.
To identify and close background applications, you can follow these steps:
- Check your device's settings: Navigate to the Settings menu and look for the list of applications running in the background. This can usually be found in the Privacy or Application Management section.
- Identify unused applications: Go through the list of background applications and identify any applications that you rarely or never use. These applications may be using RAM without providing any benefit to you.
- Close or disable unused applications: Once you have identified the unused applications, close them or disable them from running in the background. This will immediately free up the RAM they were using.
- Monitor RAM usage: Use tools like Task Manager or optimization software to periodically monitor your RAM usage. This will help you identify which applications are using the most RAM and allow you to make informed decisions about closing or disabling them.
- Restart your device: If you are unable to identify specific applications, simply restarting your device can help. When you restart your computer or device, all applications will be closed, and your RAM will be wiped clean. This can free up RAM and improve the overall performance of your device.
By following these steps, you can effectively free up RAM by closing all other applications. This will not only improve your device's performance but also ensure that you have sufficient resources available for applications like Paint Tool SAI.
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Delete unused applications and files to optimise memory
Deleting unused applications and files is a great way to optimise your computer's memory and improve its overall performance. Unused applications can take up valuable storage space and slow down your system, even if they are not actively running.
To begin, identify which programs are unused or unwanted. You can do this by using the built-in tools in your operating system. For Windows 10, go to Settings > Apps > Apps & Features to see a list of all your apps and sort them by size, name, or installation date. For Mac OS, go to Finder > Applications to see all applications and check their size by selecting them and pressing Command + I.
Once you have identified the unused or unwanted programs, you can delete or uninstall them. Remember to empty your recycle bin or trash afterwards to free up more space, as deleted files remain in these folders until you empty them.
In addition to deleting unused applications, you should also consider removing old files, photos, videos, and other data that you no longer need. Transferring these files to an external hard drive or cloud storage can help free up space on your computer's hard drive.
You can also use third-party tools to scan your computer for unnecessary programs and remove them completely. For example, CCleaner or Revo Uninstaller can help with this process.
By regularly deleting unused applications and files, you can optimise your computer's memory, improve its performance, and ensure that you have sufficient space for running programs like Paint Tool SAI without encountering memory load errors.
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Frequently asked questions
Download the 64-bit version of SAI2, which has a maximum canvas size of 100,000 x 100,000 pixels. This version will use all the RAM you have.
Avoid creating a canvas that's too big. The bigger the canvas, the more memory it will use.
Yes, you can try closing all other applications and deleting unused applications on your device.
You can try formatting your device. However, this should be a last resort after trying other methods, as formatting will erase all your data.






























