Using the Glassmorphism Generator
This generator simplifies the process of creating the popular "frosted glass" UI effect. The controls allow you to quickly experiment with the core components of the glassmorphism style.
- Set the Background. The effect works best over a colorful image. Use the "Upload" button to select a background from your computer, or "Reset" to return to the default gradient.
- Adjust the Blur. Use the "Blur" slider to control the intensity of the background blur seen through the element. Higher values create a more frosted look.
- Set Transparency and Tint. The "Transparency" slider controls the alpha value of the background color. You can also change the "Tint Color" to give the glass a subtle hue.
- Define the Outline. A subtle, light border is a key part of the aesthetic. Use the "Outline" controls to set its width, color, and opacity.
- Copy the CSS. The generated CSS code updates with every change. Click the "Copy" button to grab the code for your project.
What is Glassmorphism?
Glassmorphism is a UI design trend characterized by elements that mimic the appearance of frosted or translucent glass. It creates a sense of depth by allowing the background to be partially visible through the foreground elements, but blurred for readability. The key visual layers are a vivid background, the semi-transparent blurred element, and a subtle border to help the element stand out.
Key CSS Properties Explained
The glassmorphism effect is primarily achieved with a single CSS property, supported by a few others to complete the look.
| Property | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
backdrop-filter |
This is the most important property. It applies graphical effects like blur or saturation to the area behind an element. The element needs some level of transparency for the effect to be visible. | backdrop-filter: blur(10px); |
background |
An rgba() or hsla() color is used to set the base color and transparency of the glass element. The alpha channel (transparency) is what allows the blurred background to show through. |
background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); |
border |
A thin, semi-transparent border helps to define the edges of the glass element, making it appear as if light is catching the edge. | border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.3); |
Best Practices for Glassmorphism
- Use a Vibrant Background. The effect is most noticeable and appealing when placed over a colorful or detailed background image. A plain, solid-color background will not showcase the blur effectively.
- Ensure Readability. Text and icons on a glassmorphic surface can be hard to read if the contrast is not sufficient. Test your text colors carefully, and consider adding a subtle
text-shadowto improve legibility. - Provide Fallbacks. While widely supported, not all browsers handle
backdrop-filter. Consider a fallback style for unsupported browsers, such as a solid, semi-transparent background color without the blur. You can use an@supportsrule in your CSS to apply styles conditionally.
/* Example of a fallback */
.glass-element {
background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.5); /* Fallback for older browsers */
}
@supports (backdrop-filter: blur(10px)) {
.glass-element {
background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2);
backdrop-filter: blur(10px);
}
}