# LayeringDiff: Layered Image Synthesis via Generation, then Disassembly with Generative Knowledge

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2501.01197 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2501.01197/

## Key facts

- Cited by 16 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 2 Jan 2025.

## Built on by (most cited first, 16 of 16)

- [Qwen-Image-Layered: Towards Inherent Editability via Layer Decomposition](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.15603/) (2025)
- [PrismLayers: Open Data for High-Quality Multi-Layer Transparent Image Generative Models](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.22523/) (2025)
- [OmniPSD: Layered PSD Generation with Diffusion Transformer](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.09247/) (2025)
- [PSDiffusion: Harmonized Multi-Layer Image Generation via Layout and Appearance Alignment](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.11468/) (2025)
- [Video Generation with Stable Transparency via Shiftable RGB-A Distribution Learner](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2509.24979/) (2025)
- [MagicQuillV2: Precise and Interactive Image Editing with Layered Visual Cues](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.03046/) (2025)
- [TAUE: Training-free Noise Transplant and Cultivation Diffusion Model](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2511.02580/) (2025)
- [TransText: Alpha-as-RGB Representation for Transparent Text Animation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2603.17944/) (2026)
- [LiWi: Layering in the Wild](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.14552/) (2026)
- [Does Synthetic Layered Design Data Benefit Layered Design Decomposition?](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.15167/) (2026)
- [Stable-Layers: Fine-Tuning Image Layer Decomposition Models with VLM-Scored Reinforcement Learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.30257/) (2026)
- [ReDesign: Recovering Editable Design Structures from Images via Agentic Decomposition](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2607.25565/) (2026)
- [Bunraku: Turning a Single Illustration into an Editable Live2D Character](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2607.27348/) (2026)
- [A Unified and Controllable Framework for Layered Image Generation with Visual Effects](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2601.15507/) (2026)
- [LimeCross: Context-Conditioned Layered Image Editing with Structural Consistency](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.10319/) (2026)
- [BFS: Back-to-Front Layered Image Synthesis via Knowledge Transfer](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.24894/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Layers have become indispensable tools for professional artists, allowing them to build a hierarchical structure that enables independent control over individual visual elements. In this paper, we propose LayeringDiff, a novel pipeline for the synthesis of layered images, which begins by generating a composite image using an off-the-shelf image generative model, followed by disassembling the image into its constituent foreground and background layers. By extracting layers from a composite image, rather than generating them from scratch, LayeringDiff bypasses the need for large-scale training to develop generative capabilities for individual layers. Furthermore, by utilizing a pretrained off-the-shelf generative model, our method can produce diverse contents and object scales in synthesized layers. For effective layer decomposition, we adapt a large-scale pretrained generative prior to estimate foreground and background layers. We also propose high-frequency alignment modules to refine the fine-details of the estimated layers. Our comprehensive experiments demonstrate that our approach effectively synthesizes layered images and supports various practical applications.