Box Shadow Generator
Build CSS box-shadow visually with multiple layers, inset shadows and fine-tuned controls. Preview in real-time and copy CSS.
box-shadow: 0px 4px 14px -2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15);
Shadow Layers
What is box-shadow?
The CSS box-shadow property adds shadow effects around an element. You can control offset, blur radius, spread, color, and even create inset shadows for pressed effects.
Multiple Shadows
CSS supports multiple comma-separated shadows on a single element. Layer them for realistic depth effects like Material Design elevation.
Performance Tip
Box-shadow is GPU-accelerated in modern browsers. For animations, prefer opacity or transform changes over shadow changes for smoother performance.
How to Use Box Shadow Generator
The Box Shadow Generator provides a visual editor for creating CSS box shadows with real-time preview and instant code output. Everything runs in your browser so you can experiment freely. This tool eliminates guesswork from shadow design, letting you craft professional depth effects for cards, modals, buttons, and other UI elements.
Open the Box Shadow Generator
Navigate to the Box Shadow Generator from the developer tools section. The visual editor runs entirely in your browser, providing real-time preview as you adjust shadow parameters.
Adjust Shadow Offset
Use the horizontal (X) and vertical (Y) offset sliders to position the shadow relative to the element. Positive values move the shadow right and down, while negative values move it left and up.
Configure Blur and Spread
Set the blur radius to control shadow softness and the spread radius to expand or contract the shadow size. Higher blur values create softer, more diffused shadows typical of modern UI design.
Choose Shadow Color and Opacity
Select the shadow color using the color picker and adjust opacity with the alpha slider. Using semi-transparent blacks or brand colors creates natural-looking shadows that integrate with any background.
Add Multiple Shadows and Copy Code
Layer multiple shadows for more complex effects by adding additional shadow definitions. Review and copy the final CSS code, which is ready to paste into your stylesheets.
Common Use Cases
Card and Container Elevation
Add depth to card components, modal dialogs, and dropdown menus by applying carefully tuned box shadows that convey visual hierarchy and layering.
Interactive Button States
Create hover and active shadow effects for buttons that provide tactile feedback, making the interface feel more responsive and engaging to users.
Navigation and Header Styling
Apply bottom shadows to fixed navigation bars and headers to visually separate them from scrolling content and establish interface structure.
Image and Media Framing
Add shadow effects to images, video containers, and media galleries to lift them from the page and create an elegant presentation style.
Pro Tips
- -Use multiple layered shadows with varying blur and opacity for more realistic and nuanced depth effects that mimic natural lighting.
- -Keep shadow offsets small (2-8 pixels) and blur values moderate for subtle elevation effects following Material Design principles.
- -Use the inset option to create inner shadows for pressed button states, input field styling, or recessed container effects.
- -Match shadow direction consistently across your interface to maintain a coherent light source and visual hierarchy.
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