Layered Shadow Generator
Design layered box-shadows that stack for realistic depth, and copy the code.
Depth from multiple shadows
A single box-shadow can look flat, but stacking several — with different blurs and offsets — mimics how real light casts layered shadows, giving far more convincing depth. This lets you build and preview stacked shadows and copies the code, so you can create rich, realistic elevation.
Layer your shadows and copy the CSS.
Why layering beats a single shadow
Real objects do not cast one uniform shadow; they cast a soft, spreading one and a tighter, darker one close to the object, and the eye reads that combination as genuine depth. Recreating it with two or three stacked shadows — a close tight one, a wider soft one — produces elevation that a single shadow cannot match, which is exactly the technique behind the polished cards and buttons in refined interfaces. The principle throughout is subtlety: low-opacity shadows layered thoughtfully look natural, while heavy stacked shadows look muddy. Being able to build and preview the layers is what lets you tune them into convincing, restrained depth rather than an overdone blur.
Questions & answers
Why stack multiple shadows?
Real objects cast layered shadows — a tight close one and a soft spreading one — so stacking two or three creates far more convincing depth than a single shadow.
How do I keep it looking natural?
Use low-opacity shadows layered thoughtfully. Heavy stacked shadows look muddy, while subtle layers read as genuine elevation.
Is anything uploaded?
No. It runs entirely in your browser.