Can I create custom shapes in Webflow to add onto my hero image?
TL;DR
- Use CSS clip-path on divs with tools like Clippy to create custom polygonal shapes.
- Upload or embed SVGs from design tools for full control over custom shapes.
- Use Webflow’s style panel options like border radius and rotations for simple geometric forms.
- Add shape dividers using background gradients or SVGs with absolute positioning.
- Insert Lottie animations for dynamic, animated shapes using exported JSON files.
Yes, you can create custom shapes in Webflow to enhance your hero image using several methods, depending on the design and flexibility you need.
1. Use CSS Clip Path for Simple Shapes
- Webflow allows you to apply a CSS clip path to any element (like
divblocks). - Select the element, go to Element Settings > Custom CSS, and add a
clip-pathvalue. - For example,
clip-path: polygon(...)can create diagonal edges, triangles, or other polygons. - You can use third-party tools like Clippy (https://bennettfeely.com/clippy/) to generate clip-path values visually.
2. Upload SVG Shapes as Images or Embed Code
- For full custom shapes, design them in a tool like Figma, Illustrator, or Sketch, export as optimized SVG, and upload to Webflow.
- You can either:
- Place them as Image elements over your hero image using absolute positioning.
- Or, embed the raw SVG code using a Custom Code component for more styling flexibility.
3. Use Webflow’s Native Shapes (Borders, Rounding, etc.)
- For basic shapes such as circles, pills, or rectangles, you can use border radius, borders, and rotations within the Style panel.
- Combine these with background gradients or opacity for stylized effects.
4. Add Shape Dividers with Background Images or Gradients
- Create custom div blocks with background gradients or SVG backgrounds to simulate waves, angles, or curves.
- Position them at the top or bottom of your hero section using absolute positioning and proper z-index layering.
5. Use Lottie Animations for Animated Shapes
- Design an animated shape in Adobe After Effects + Bodymovin, export as Lottie JSON, and insert into Webflow using the Lottie element.
- Position the animation over the hero image for interactive motion.
Summary
You can create custom shapes in Webflow using clip-path, SVGs, styled divs, or Lottie animations, depending on your design needs. Whether static or animated, these methods let you visually enhance your hero image with custom geometries or accents.