Designing an elevation shadow for a card component
Cards typically use subtle shadows to suggest elevation. Adjusting blur and spread visually helps you achieve the right depth without excessive trial - and - error in code.
Box Shadow
Create CSS box shadows visually. Adjust offset, blur, spread, and color, then copy the CSS code. Real - time preview included.
Getting box - shadow values right by trial and error in a code editor is slow. A visual generator lets you dial in the exact shadow you want and grab the CSS instantly.
How to use
- Adjust horizontal and vertical offset with the sliders
- Set blur radius and spread radius
- Pick a shadow color and opacity
- Toggle inset if needed, then copy the CSS
Why this tool is useful
CSS box shadows require multiple values (offsets, blur, spread, color, and optional inset) that interact in ways that are hard to predict from numbers alone. Getting the right shadow often involves many small adjustments, and writing the values by hand is slow.
A visual generator lets you tweak each parameter and see the shadow in real time, producing the final CSS property when you are satisfied.
What this tool helps with
Interactive adjustment removes guesswork from shadow design. You can compare different shadow intensities and spreads quickly without switching between code and browser.
The generated CSS is copy - ready, which reduces the chance of syntax errors and helps you maintain consistent shadow styles across components.
Examples
Creating an inset shadow for a pressed - button effect
Inset shadows simulate depth going inward, which is useful for interactive states. A generator lets you preview the inset effect and fine - tune it before applying.
Layering multiple shadows for a realistic effect
Realistic shadows often combine multiple box - shadow values. Building each layer visually and copying the combined output keeps the CSS accurate and readable.
Recommended for
Recommended for front - end developers building component libraries, designers implementing elevation systems, and anyone who wants accurate CSS box shadows without manual guesswork.
Privacy and processing
Everything runs in your browser. No data is sent to any server.
Frequently Asked Questions
What properties can I customize?
You can adjust horizontal offset, vertical offset, blur radius, spread radius, shadow color, opacity, and toggle inset mode.
Can I create multiple shadows?
The tool generates a single shadow value. You can combine multiple generated values in your CSS by separating them with commas.
What is the inset option?
Inset creates an inner shadow instead of an outer shadow. It's useful for creating pressed or recessed effects on buttons and cards.
How do I copy the CSS?
Click the 'Copy CSS' button to copy the complete box - shadow property to your clipboard, ready to paste into your stylesheet.
Does this work with all browsers?
Yes, box - shadow is supported in all modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
What are good shadow values for cards?
A subtle card shadow typically uses small offsets (0 - 4px), moderate blur (8 - 24px), and a light color like rgba(0,0,0,0.1).
Can I use rgba colors?
Yes, the color picker lets you choose any color, and the generated CSS uses rgba format for transparency control.
Does this work offline?
Yes, once loaded, the generator works entirely in your browser.
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