CSS Clip-Path and Masking

Introduction CSS clip-path and masking allow developers to create advanced visual effects by clipping or masking elements. These techniques enhance design flexibility and user experience. 1. CSS clip-path The clip-path property defines a visible region of an element, hiding everything outside the defined shape. Basic Shapes with clip-path This creates a circular clip. Using Polygon […]

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  • Post category: CSS
  • Reading time: 21 mins read
  • Post last modified: April 3, 2025

Introduction

CSS clip-path and masking allow developers to create advanced visual effects by clipping or masking elements. These techniques enhance design flexibility and user experience.

1. CSS clip-path

The clip-path property defines a visible region of an element, hiding everything outside the defined shape.

Basic Shapes with clip-path

div {
    clip-path: circle(50% at center);
}
CSS

This creates a circular clip.

Using Polygon Shapes

div {
    clip-path: polygon(0% 0%, 100% 0%, 50% 100%);
}
CSS

This defines a triangle shape.

Using SVG as clip-path

div {
    clip-path: url(#myClip);
}
CSS

Define the clip in an SVG file.

2. CSS Masking

CSS masking hides parts of an element using an image mask.

mask-image Property

div {
    mask-image: url('mask.png');
}
CSS

Uses an image as a mask.

mask-gradient

div {
    mask-image: linear-gradient(black, transparent);
}
CSS

Creates a fading effect.

3. Differences Between clip-path and masking

  • clip-path: Defines a visible area but does not support transparency.
  • masking: Uses transparency for more complex visual effects.

Conclusion

Both clip-path and masking offer powerful ways to manipulate element visibility, enhancing creative web designs.

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