How to Add a White Outline Around Images in Canva

Adding a white outline — or any color outline — to your images in Canva is a simple way to make your graphics pop. This technique works great for social media posts, templates, and promotional content.

Here’s how to do it step by step.

Step 1: Select Your Image

• Click on the image you want to edit in your Canva design.

Step 2: Open the Shadows Menu

• In the top toolbar, click Edit.
• Then navigate to Shadows.
• This menu contains options for adding outlines, glows, and shadows to your image.

Step 3: Choose the Outline Option

• Under Shadows, select Outline.
• By default, the outline color starts as black.

Step 4: Customize the Color

• Click the color picker to choose your preferred outline color.
• For a classic, clean look, select white.
• You can also match the outline to your design colors for a more custom look.

Step 5: Adjust Size and Intensity

• Use the Size slider to make the outline thicker or thinner.
• Adjust the Intensity slider to control how strong or subtle the outline appears.
• Example: You might use size 13 and intensity 100 for a clean, visible outline.

Step 6: Fine-Tune for Your Design

• Experiment with different colors, sizes, and intensities to see what works best with your layout.
• Some Canva templates already include outlines — you can adjust or remove them as needed.

Pro Tips

• White outlines work well on colorful or busy backgrounds to make images stand out.
• Keep the outline subtle so it enhances your image without overpowering it.
• Combine with other Canva effects like drop shadows or glows for extra depth.