Stable Diffusion Explained: Create AI Art (Even NSFW) Easily
Discover how Stable Diffusion turns text prompts into visuals. From free tools to advanced customization, create art that stands out, including NSFW options.
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Feeling overwhelmed by all the AI tools talk or unsure how to use them in your creative work?
You're not alone.
Many creators stand at the edge of innovation, wondering if they should leap or wait for the 'perfect' moment.
But here’s the truth: creation isn’t about perfection. It’s about discovery.
This guide will help you explore Stable Diffusion—your creative partner that thrives on experimentation, without the burden of complicated tech.
Why Should You Try Stable Diffusion?
Is this tool right for what you want to create?
Is it easy to use or too complicated?
Can it help you bring creative ideas, even NSFW ones, to life?
If you're curious about monetizing that edgy content, check out my guide on how to make money on Fansly.
Like a blank canvas awaiting its first brushstroke, this tool is simple to start with yet deep enough to evolve alongside you.
Let’s show you how.
What Is Stable Diffusion? A Simple Explanation
Stable Diffusion is a tool that turns words into images—a machine that doesn’t just draw but collaborates with your imagination.
Think of your prompts as seeds: plant one and watch the tool grow it into something unexpected and beautiful.
Example:
Let’s say you type this into Stable Diffusion:
This is a photograph, taken at sunset, of a beautiful, sensual woman with short, curly, wet, brunette hair. With her head tilted back she is (looking up:1.3) at the sky as she walks through a lake. Her swimsuit clings to her body accentuating her perky chest as sunlight shines off the disturbed water surface. vivid colors, serene, peaceful, extremely intricate details, masterpiece, dark shadows, realistic, high contrast, highly detailed skin, f/2. 8, bokeh
This is the Stable Diffusion interface using the online service Diffus.
That’s it.
You give Stable Diffusion a few creative details, and it works its magic, turning your words into a stunningly lifelike image.
Here’s the exciting part: you can tweak the settings to make the images even more realistic, play with lighting or skin textures, and create unique works of art that feel professional.
Prompt example courtesy of Luv2Grill via PromptHero.
Why Is Stable Diffusion Special?
It’s Free or Cheap to Use
Unlike expensive tools, Stable Diffusion is open-source, meaning anyone can access its core features for free.
You don’t need to spend big to get started. Many versions of Stable Diffusion are free, and you can unlock deeper capabilities as your curiosity grows.
Creativity isn’t about having the most expensive tools—it’s about making the most of what you have right now.
It Works for Any Art Style (Even NSFW)
Whether you want anime-style art, realistic portraits, or experimental NSFW content, Stable Diffusion can do it all.
Creative freedom: The tool is flexible, so you can play around with different ideas without limits.
You Can Customize It
As you get more familiar with Stable Diffusion, you can tweak settings or even train the tool to match your personal style.
Think of tweaking your prompts like fine-tuning a musical instrument: small adjustments—adding an adjective, adjusting a color—can completely change the outcome.
Quick Tip: Start simple and experiment as you gain confidence.
Use It Online or on Your Computer
You can either use Stable Diffusion through a website or download it onto your computer.
Choose what’s easiest for you.
- Online use: Great for beginners.
- Local use: Ideal for advanced users who want more control.
Stable Diffusion vs. Other AI Tools: What’s the Difference?
You’ve heard of Midjourney, DALL-E, Firefly, right?
They all make AI images, but how does Stable Diffusion stand out?
Stable Diffusion vs. Midjourney
- Midjourney: Super easy to use, amazing art styles. Great for quick, beautiful results. But: It costs money, and you have less control under the hood.
- Stable Diffusion: More control, often free. You can really dig in and customize things. But: It might feel a bit techier at first, especially if you install it yourself.
Think of it this way:
- Midjourney: Like a point-and-shoot camera – amazing photos, super simple.
- Stable Diffusion: Like a professional camera – more settings to learn, but way more power to create exactly what you want.
DALL-E 3 & Adobe Firefly
- DALL-E 3 (from ChatGPT) & Adobe Firefly: Also easy to use, powerful. But: Subscription-based and have stricter rules about NSFW content.
- Stable Diffusion: More open, often freer, especially for NSFW exploration.
Your Choice?
- Easiest start & stylized art? Midjourney or DALL-E 3.
- Deep control & exploring boundaries (including NSFW)? Stable Diffusion.
Table: AI Image Tool Comparison
Getting Started: Online or Local – Which is Easier?
Ready to try Stable Diffusion?
You have two main paths: online or local.
Let’s make it simple:
Online: The Beginner-Friendly Path (easiest)
Think of online platforms like ‘Stable Diffusion made easy’ websites.
Diffus is best for newbies wanting to try it fast and anyone who doesn’t want to mess with tech setups.
My recommendation?
Why Diffus?
- Super simple to use – like drag and drop easy.
- No tech skills needed—it’s all in your browser.
- Often has free options to experiment.
- Private creation—your art stays yours.
- Fast, even if your computer is slow.
Quick Guide: Using Diffus (or similar online platforms)
- Sign up – easy peasy.
- Type what you want to see in the prompt box. Be detailed! (Example: “steampunk cat detective in a victorian street”)
- Click ‘Generate’ – and watch the magic happen!
- Tweak your prompt & settings to refine.
Diffus Pricing Plans: A Detailed Comparison
What are Credits?
Ccredits are essentially the currency you use to generate images.
Think of them as tokens that power the AI image generation process. Each plan provides a certain allocation of credits, either monthly or daily.
How Credits are Used
Every time you generate an image using Diffus, a certain number of credits are deducted from your balance.
The number of credits consumed per image depends on various factors, including:
- Model Used: Different AI models may have different credit costs.
- Image Resolution: Higher-resolution images typically require more credits.
- Number of Sampling Steps: More sampling steps generally result in higher quality but also consume more credits.
- Other Settings: Additional settings and features may also affect credit usage.
- GPU: Using a dedicated GPU for faster processing will also require credits.
Estimating Your Image Output
Generating high-quality, photorealistic images uses more credits due to the complex settings required.
On average, you might get 1-3 detailed images per 10 credits.
- Teaser plan (30 credits per day): Approximately 30–90 images daily.
- Basic plan (3,000 credits): Approximately 300–900 images per month.
- Plus plan (18,000 credits): Approximately 1,800–5,400 images per month.
- Pro plan (40,000 credits): Approximately 4,000–12,000 images per month.
For simpler images or fewer sampling steps, credit consumption may approach a 1:1 ratio.
I will soon create a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use Diffus.
Local: The Tech-Savvy Path (More Control)
Running Stable Diffusion on your own computer gives you complete control over your art—and the freedom to work offline.
This path is best for tech enthusiasts who aren’t afraid to tinker.
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Check Your System Requirements
For Windows/Linux:
- GPU: A dedicated NVIDIA GPU with at least 6GB VRAM (e.g., RTX 2060 or better). AMD GPUs might work, but support can be inconsistent.
- RAM: Minimum 8GB, with 16GB recommended for smoother performance.
- CPU: A modern multi-core processor (an i5 or higher is ideal).
- Storage: At least 10–20GB of free disk space for the model files and dependencies.
- OS: Windows 10/11 or a recent Linux distribution (like Ubuntu).
For macOS:
- Apple Silicon (M1/M2): Excellent native support via Metal—8GB of RAM is the baseline, though 16GB is better for intensive tasks.
- Intel-based Macs: You can run Stable Diffusion on the CPU, but expect slower performance. At least 8GB RAM is recommended.
- OS: macOS Big Sur or later.
Step 2: Set Up Your Environment
For Windows/Linux:
- Install Python: Ensure Python 3.8 or later is installed on your system.
- Set Up CUDA: If you have an NVIDIA GPU, install the latest CUDA and cuDNN drivers to take full advantage of GPU acceleration.
- Clone the Repository: Download a popular web UI like Automatic1111 from GitHub.
- Install Dependencies: Follow the repository’s README. Typically, you’ll set up a virtual environment and install required libraries using pip:
Example commands:
- git clone https://github.com/AUTOMATIC1111/stable-diffusion-webui.git
- cd stable-diffusion-webui
- python -m venv venv
- venv\Scripts\activate (on Windows) or source venv/bin/activate (on Linux)
- pip install -r requirements.txt
For macOS:
- Install Homebrew (if needed): This helps manage packages on macOS.
- Install Python: Use Homebrew to install Python 3.8 or newer (brew install python).
- Optimized Branch for Apple Silicon: If you have an M1/M2 Mac, look for repositories or branches optimized for Apple Silicon (search for “stable diffusion webui mac” for specific instructions).
- Install Dependencies: Follow similar steps as for Windows/Linux, adapting any macOS-specific instructions noted in the repository’s README.
Step 3: Launch and Explore
- Start the Web UI: Once everything is installed, launch the interface by running the provided script (usually something like python launch.py).
- Access the Interface: Open your browser and navigate to the local server (commonly at http://localhost:7860).
- Customize and Experiment: Enjoy full control—tweak model settings, test different prompts, and experiment with parameters offline.
Final Tip
Local installation is ideal if you have a powerful computer and strong technical skills, as it offers complete control and flexibility over your workflow.
However, be prepared—setting it up can be time-consuming and may require troubleshooting.
I tried installing Stable Diffusion on my M1 Pro MacBook, but the generation speed was extremely slow—some images took over 30 minutes to complete. Since creating AI images involves many trials, I decided to switch to online tools instead.
If you’re just looking to quickly test whether Stable Diffusion meets your creative needs, starting with an online platform is a faster, hassle-free option.
Online or Local? Simple Choice:
- Want EASY & FAST? Online.
- Want CONTROL & are techy? Local.
Stable Diffusion for NSFW Creators: Yes, It’s Possible (Responsibly!)
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: NSFW content.
Can Stable Diffusion create adult art? Yes.
Is it a big deal for creators? Absolutely.
If you’re an adult creator or exploring edgy art, Stable Diffusion is a game-changer.
Key Things to Consider for NSFW Creation
It’s NSFW-Ready (No Filters!)
Unlike some AI tools, Stable Diffusion doesn’t censor you. It can generate very explicit images. This is powerful for NSFW artists.
But: With power comes responsibility.
Ethics First: Create Responsibly
Always be ethical & legal.
Think about consent, respect, and boundaries in your creations. Use this power thoughtfully.
Prompting is Key for NSFW
Want great NSFW art? You gotta be specific in your prompts. Describe exactly what you want – poses, body types, details.
Tip:
Experiment with keywords like “erotic,” “hentai,” “explicit” (use them responsibly).
Negative Prompts are Your Friend
“Negative prompts” tell the AI what NOT to create.
Crucial for NSFW to refine images, remove unwanted bits, control the ‘explicit’ level.
Model Choice Matters a LOT
Different Stable Diffusion models = different art styles.
Some models are better for realistic NSFW, others for anime, etc.
Experiment to find your style!
Making Money with NSFW AI Art? Platforms to Consider
Looking to turn your NSFW AI creations into a reliable revenue stream?
Below are top platforms for NSFW AI creators to explore.
Platform policies regarding AI and NSFW content frequently change, so always check the latest guidelines before posting.
Fansly: NSFW-Friendly & Creator-Focused
Fansly is a popular platform for NSFW creators who want to build a fanbase and monetize through subscriptions.
It’s easy to customize subscription tiers, engage directly with your audience, and grow a steady income.
For tips on getting started and optimizing your earnings, check out my guide on how Fansly works.
Fanvue: AI & NSFW-Friendly – Ideal for AI Models
Fanvue is a platform that actively supports AI-generated content, making it perfect for NSFW AI artists.
Its features are designed to help AI creators build a following and maximize revenue.
Curious about maximizing your presence on Fanvue?
Read about how to start on Fanvue to learn key strategies.
Patreon: Memberships for Artistic AI Content
Patreon is ideal for AI art that’s more artistic or suggestive, but it’s important to carefully review their NSFW guidelines before starting.
Patreon is great for building recurring income through fan memberships.
To understand how to structure your tiers and promote your work effectively, read about how Patreon works for content creators.
Consider Also: OnlyFans – Leading in Adult Content
OnlyFans does not allow AI-generated content, but studying its proven strategies can help you succeed on other platforms.
Learn how to grow your audience and monetize effectively by applying key OnlyFans promotion and monetization strategies.
Stay Updated on Policy Changes
Always double-check platform guidelines directly before posting, as policies on AI and NSFW content are subject to change.
Staying informed can save you from compliance issues and help maximize your earnings.
Conclusion: Your Creative AI Journey Starts Now
Stable Diffusion is a game-changer for creators.
It’s powerful, accessible, and often free.
From stunning art to exploring NSFW, it opens new doors.
Don’t be intimidated.
Start simple, experiment, and see where it takes you. Use online platforms like Diffus to make it easy.
AI is changing creation. Embrace it, explore, and unleash your unique vision.
Key Takeaways for Creators: Your Quick Checklist
- Stable Diffusion = powerful, free-ish AI art tool.
- Versatile – any style, even NSFW.
- Easy online platforms (like Diffus) for beginners.
- Local install for techies & control freaks.
- NSFW possible (be responsible!).
- Monetize on platforms like Fansly & Fanvue (check rules!).
- Ethical AI use is key.
- Start creating & have fun!
Frequently Asked Questions About Stable Diffusion (FAQ)
What is Stable Diffusion, and how does it work?
Stable Diffusion is an AI-powered image generator that transforms written descriptions into visuals. It works by predicting and creating images based on the text prompts you provide, making it a versatile tool for digital art, concept design, and creative exploration.
How do you start using Stable Diffusion if you’re a beginner?
Beginners can easily start with online platforms like Diffus or Stable Diffusion WebUI. These platforms allow you to generate images just by entering text prompts. For more control, you can download and install the tool locally as you gain confidence.
Is Stable Diffusion free to use, and what are the costs involved?
The core Stable Diffusion software is free and open-source, but additional costs may arise if you use third-party services or advanced tools. Running it locally requires a powerful computer, while online platforms may offer free trials or paid upgrades.
Can Stable Diffusion be used to generate NSFW images?
Yes, Stable Diffusion allows for NSFW content creation without restrictive filters. Many artists use it for explicit or artistic projects. However, creators should ensure they follow ethical guidelines and any platform-specific rules when sharing such content.
What are the best Stable Diffusion models for creating high-quality images?
Standard models like Stable Diffusion v1.5 and v2.1 are great starting points. Custom models on Hugging Face and other platforms can help achieve specific aesthetics, such as anime, photorealism, or fantasy art, depending on your creative goals.
How do Stable Diffusion prompts work, and why are they important?
Prompts act as instructions that guide the AI in generating your desired image. Well-structured prompts with descriptive details, such as colors, styles, or environments, help produce more refined and accurate outputs. Adjusting prompts is key to improving results.
Can you upload images to Stable Diffusion and modify them?
Yes, Stable Diffusion’s image-to-image (img2img) feature lets you upload existing images and modify them creatively. By adjusting the settings, you can enhance, stylize, or transform sketches and photos into completely new AI-generated artwork.
How does Stable Diffusion compare to tools like Midjourney or DALL-E?
Stable Diffusion offers more flexibility and control, making it ideal for creators who want to customize outputs or run the software locally. Midjourney and DALL-E are simpler and focus on quick, stylized outputs. Stable Diffusion is favored by users seeking deeper customization, including NSFW capabilities.
Can Stable Diffusion be used commercially to make money?
Yes, Stable Diffusion can be used to create commercial projects like digital art, merchandise, NFTs, and commissions. NSFW creators often monetize their content on platforms like Fansly or Fanvue. Always review the licensing terms of the models you use to avoid legal issues.
Does Stable Diffusion create copyrighted images, and are its outputs private?
Stable Diffusion doesn’t copy images directly but can generate visuals resembling existing works depending on the prompt. When running it locally, your creations remain private, but online platforms may have their own privacy policies, so it’s good to check their terms.
On Patreon, I share my experiments, insights, and behind-the-scenes progress as I rebuild and grow. I explore fresh ideas across different media and languages, dive into AI tools, and pass along every lesson I learn.
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