Free CSS Box-Shadow & Text-Shadow Generator — Online Tool
Create and customize CSS box-shadow and text-shadow with multiple layers, inset shadows, and live preview on sample elements. Runs entirely in your browser.
How to Use the Shadow Generator
- Choose mode — select Box Shadow for elements or Text Shadow for text.
- Add layers — click "Add Layer" to create multiple shadow effects.
- Adjust values — set X/Y offset, blur radius, spread radius, and color for each layer.
- Inset shadow — toggle inset for inner shadow effects (box-shadow only).
- Preview — see the shadow applied to a card, button, and text in real-time.
- Copy CSS — grab the CSS or Tailwind classes with one click.
- Randomize — click Randomize for instant inspiration.
Why Use This Shadow Generator
Box shadows and text shadows add depth and dimension to UI designs. Getting the exact shadow you want requires tuning multiple values simultaneously. This tool provides instant visual feedback, letting you experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect shadow.
The multiple layer system allows you to create complex shadow effects that combine subtle ambient shadows with stronger directional shadows for realistic depth. The Tailwind output makes it easy to integrate with utility-first CSS frameworks.
Frequently Asked Questions
box-shadow creates a shadow around an element's box — it has offset, blur, spread, and inset options. text-shadow creates a shadow behind text — it has offset, blur, and color but no spread. box-shadow supports multiple layers and inset, while text-shadow is simpler and only affects the text itself.
Real shadows are soft and subtle. Use a moderate blur (4-8px), small offset (0-4px), and very transparent black (rgba(0,0,0,0.1-0.2)). For extra realism, add a second shadow layer with less blur and more spread for an ambient occlusion effect.
The tool automatically generates the matching Tailwind class: shadow-sm (small), shadow (default), shadow-md (medium), shadow-lg (large), shadow-xl (extra large), or shadow-2xl (2x large). For custom shadows, you may need to use arbitrary values like shadow-[0_4px_6px_rgba(0,0,0,0.1)].
Use Cases
CSS Card Shadows
Create realistic CSS box shadows for card components that add depth and visual hierarchy to your web designs.
Text Shadow Effects
Generate text shadow effects for headings, hero sections, and typography that stand out against any background.
Layered Shadow Designs
Build multi-layered shadow designs that combine ambient and directional shadows for realistic depth effects.
Material Design Elevation
Match Material Design elevation standards by creating shadows that follow Google's depth guidelines for UI components.
Flat UI Depth
Create depth in flat UI designs using subtle shadows that add dimension without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic.