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CSS box shadow generator

Build beautiful CSS box-shadow effects visually with multiple layers, presets, and a live preview. Copy production-ready CSS instantly.

Offset X0px
Offset Y4px
Blur12px
Spread0px
#000000
Opacity20%
box-shadow
box-shadow: 0px 4px 12px 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);

What is CSS Box Shadow Generator?

A CSS box shadow generator is a visual tool for creating shadow effects on HTML elements without writing code by hand. The CSS box-shadow property adds one or more drop shadows to an element's frame, creating depth and visual hierarchy. Shadows can be placed outside (drop shadow) or inside (inset shadow) the element. This tool lets you control offset, blur, spread, color, and opacity for each shadow layer, with unlimited layering for complex effects. All rendering happens in your browser.

How to Use CSS Box Shadow Generator

  1. 1

    Configure shadow properties

    Adjust the horizontal and vertical offset, blur radius, spread, and shadow color. Toggle inset mode for inner shadows. Use the opacity slider for subtle effects.

  2. 2

    Add multiple layers

    Click "Add Shadow" to layer multiple shadows. Each layer has independent controls. Combine outer and inset shadows for realistic depth effects.

  3. 3

    Preview and copy

    Watch the live preview update as you adjust settings. Click "Copy CSS" to copy the complete box-shadow property to your clipboard.

Features

  • Full control over X offset, Y offset, blur radius, and spread
  • Inset shadow support for inner glow and pressed effects
  • Multiple shadow layers for complex depth effects
  • Color picker with opacity/alpha control
  • Live preview that updates instantly
  • Copy production-ready CSS with one click
  • Preset shadow styles for common patterns
  • 100% client-side — no server calls needed

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is CSS box-shadow?+
CSS box-shadow adds shadow effects around an element's frame. The syntax is: box-shadow: offset-x offset-y blur-radius spread-radius color. You can add multiple shadows separated by commas. The inset keyword creates inner shadows.
Can I have multiple shadows on one element?+
Yes, CSS supports unlimited shadow layers separated by commas. Shadows are rendered front-to-back (first shadow on top). Combining subtle shadows creates more realistic depth than a single heavy shadow.
What is the difference between blur and spread?+
Blur radius controls how much the shadow is blurred — higher values create softer, more diffused shadows. Spread radius expands or contracts the shadow — positive values make it larger than the element, negative values make it smaller.
What is an inset shadow?+
An inset shadow appears inside the element instead of outside. It creates a pressed or recessed effect. Add the inset keyword before the other values: box-shadow: inset 0 2px 4px rgba(0,0,0,0.2).
Does box-shadow affect layout?+
No, box-shadow is purely visual and does not affect the element's layout or box model. Shadows can extend beyond the element's bounds without pushing other elements. Use margin or padding if you need space for the shadow.
Is box-shadow supported in all browsers?+
Yes, box-shadow is supported in all modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. No vendor prefixes are needed. It has been universally supported since IE9.