CSS Shadow & Gradient Generator
Visually design custom CSS box shadows and gradients with real-time preview and one-click copy.
Color Picker & Converter
Pick and convert colors between HEX, RGB, HSL, CMYK →
All CSS generation and preview rendering happens locally in your browser. No data is sent to any server. Copy the generated CSS directly into your stylesheets.
A CSS generator is a visual tool that helps web developers and designers create complex CSS declarations without memorizing syntax. Our free CSS Shadow & Gradient Generator lets you design box shadows and gradients with real-time preview, then copy the generated CSS code instantly. All processing runs client-side with zero server uploads.
What Are CSS Shadows and Gradients?
CSS box-shadow adds depth and dimension to
elements by casting shadows. The property accepts offset X, offset Y, blur radius, spread
radius, color, and an optional inset keyword for inner shadows. CSS gradients are
smooth transitions between two or more colors. linear-gradient() transitions along a straight line (controlled by an angle), while radial-gradient() radiates from a center point outward in a circle or ellipse. Both properties are essential for
modern UI design, enabling depth, texture, and visual interest without images.
How to Use the CSS Generator
- Choose a mode — Select Box Shadow or Gradient from the mode toggle at the top.
- Adjust controls — Use sliders, color pickers, and dropdowns to fine-tune your design. The preview updates in real-time.
- Watch the preview — The preview panel shows exactly how your CSS will look on an element.
- Copy the CSS — Click Copy CSS to copy the generated declaration to your clipboard.
- Add color stops (Gradient) — Click + Add Stop to add intermediate colors. Drag sliders to adjust each stop's position.
Key Features
- Box Shadow Designer
Control offset X/Y, blur, spread, color, opacity, and inset with real-time sliders.
- Linear & Radial Gradients
Create linear gradients with angle control or radial gradients with shape and position.
- Multi-Stop Editor
Add up to 8 color stops, reorder by position, and adjust colors individually.
- Live Preview
See your changes instantly on a sample element with smooth transitions.
- One-Click Copy
Copy the generated CSS declaration directly to your clipboard.
- 100% Private
All rendering runs client-side. Nothing is sent to any server.
Common Use Cases
- UI Design: Create elevated cards, floating buttons, and depth effects with custom box shadows for modern interfaces.
- Brand Backgrounds: Design gradient backgrounds for hero sections, headers, and landing pages that match brand color palettes.
- Button Styling: Generate hover and active shadow states for interactive elements with inset shadows for pressed effects.
- Rapid Prototyping: Experiment with visual styles visually without writing CSS by hand, then copy the final code.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between box-shadow and shadow?
box-shadow creates a rectangular shadow behind an element's entire box, including padding and borders.
It does not follow the element's content shape (e.g., it won't match transparent PNG images). filter: shadow() follows the element's alpha mask, making it ideal for shaped elements, logos, and transparent
images. Use box-shadow for UI elements and cards; use shadow for irregular shapes.Can I create multiple shadows or layered gradients?
box-shadow: 2px 2px 4px rgba(0,0,0,0.2), -2px -2px 4px rgba(255,255,255,0.1); creates a layered neumorphism effect.What gradient directions are available?
to right, but
the angle in degrees gives you precise control. For radial gradients, choose between circle (even
spread in all directions) and ellipse (stretches to match element proportions), plus
position control.