CSS Box Shadow Generator
Create layered CSS box-shadow effects with a live preview and easy copy-to-clipboard
Updated
What is the CSS Box Shadow Generator?
CSS Box Shadow Generator
The CSS Box Shadow Generator lets you visually create, layer, and customize complex box-shadow values for your web projects. Mix multiple shadow layers with different offsets, blur, spread, colors, and inset/outset modes — all with a live preview.
Why it matters
- Multi-layer shadows — Stack shadows like a pro (CSS paints the first layer on top)
- Instant visual feedback — See your shadow change as you tweak parameters
- Copy-ready CSS — Get production-ready
box-shadowdeclarations with one click - Preset library — Start from subtle cards, elevated panels, floating elements, inner glows, or hard offsets
Tip: Layer order matters — the first layer you add is painted on top. Use the Up/Down buttons to reorder.
How it works
How CSS Box Shadow Generator Works
This tool builds CSS box-shadow declarations by composing individual shadow layers.
Steps
- Pick a preset — Choose a starting style like "Subtle card" or "Elevated"
- Set a base color — All layers will use this color with their own alpha
- Tweak layers — Select a layer and edit its offset, blur, spread, and alpha, or use the draft editor to build a new layer and add it
- Reorder & remove — Use the Up/Down buttons to change paint order, Remove to delete
- Copy the CSS — Grab the generated
box-shadowdeclaration for your stylesheet
Behind the scenes
- Each layer is rendered as:
{inset?} {x}px {y}px {blur}px {spread}px rgba({r}, {g}, {b}, {alpha}) - Layers are joined with commas into a single
box-shadowvalue - Colors are converted from hex to
rgba()for precise opacity control - The preview element applies the computed shadow in real time
Examples
Subtle card shadow
Create a gentle two-layer shadow perfect for UI cards.
Floating elevation
A deep multi-layer shadow that makes an element appear to float above the page.
Frequently asked questions
What is CSS Box Shadow Generator?
What is CSS Box Shadow Generator?
A visual tool for creating layered CSS box-shadow effects. You can combine multiple shadows with different offsets, blurs, spread radii, and opacities, then copy the generated CSS directly.
Why does layer order matter?
Why does layer order matter?
CSS paints the first shadow in the list on top. If you want a smaller tight shadow to sit above a broader diffuse shadow, make sure the tight shadow is first (top of the list). Use the Up/Down buttons to reorder.
What does "inset" do?
What does "inset" do?
Inset shadows are drawn inside the element's border, creating an inner depth effect. Outset (default) shadows are drawn outside the element and create a lift/drop effect.
Can I use different colors per layer?
Can I use different colors per layer?
The tool currently uses a single base color across all layers (each with its own alpha). To simulate different colors, add multiple layers with varying alpha values.
Is CSS Box Shadow Generator free?
Is CSS Box Shadow Generator free?
Yes, it runs entirely in your browser with no server calls. No data is sent anywhere.
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