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HomeWeb Front-endCSS TutorialIntroducing the CSS clip-path Property

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    <title>CSS Clip-Path: Shaping Web Elements</title>
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    <p>The web's predominantly rectangular layout contrasts with print media's diverse shapes.  This difference stems partly from a lack of suitable tools. This tutorial introduces <code>clip-path</code>, a CSS property offering the design flexibility of print.</p>

    <div class="key-takeaway">
        <h2 id="Key-Takeaways">Key Takeaways</h2>
        <ul>
            <li><code>clip-path</code> masks parts of an element, exceeding the limitations of the deprecated <code>clip</code> property (rectangular clipping only).</li>
            <li>It supports basic shapes, geometry boxes, or SVG <code><clippath></code> URLs for complex shapes and animations.</li>
            <li>Animating <code>clip-path</code> requires matching vertex counts in initial and final shapes for smooth transitions.</li>
            <li>While not universally supported, major modern browsers (Chrome, Safari, Opera) support <code>clip-path</code> (often with prefixes). Firefox support is partial.</li>
        </ul>
    </div>

    <h2 id="The-Basics">The Basics</h2>
    <p>Clipping trims parts of an element, partially or fully hiding it.  The <i>clipping path</i> defines the visible region, whether a simple shape or a complex polygon.  The <i>clipping region</i> is the area within this path.  Anything outside is hidden, including backgrounds, borders, shadows, and events.</p>
    <p>Even with non-rectangular elements, surrounding content flows naturally. For shape-aware content flow, use the <code>shape-outside</code> property (see related SitePoint tutorial).</p>
    <p>Remember: <code>clip-path</code> differs from the limited, deprecated <code>clip</code> property.</p>

    <h2 id="Syntax-and-Usage">Syntax and Usage</h2>
    <p>The syntax is: <code>clip-path: <clip-source> | [<basic-shape> || <geometry-box>] | none</code></p>
    <ul>
        <li><code><clip-source></code>: An SVG <code><clippath></code> URL.</li>
        <li><code><basic-shape></code>: Basic shape functions (CSS Shapes spec).</li>
        <li><code><geometry-box></code>: (Optional) Reference box for <code><basic-shape></code>, or defines the clipping shape itself (e.g., <code>margin-box</code>).</li>
    </ul>

    <div class="code-example">
        <pre class="brush:php;toolbar:false"><code>img {
  clip-path: polygon(50% 0%, 100% 50%, 50% 100%, 0% 50%);
}
        

This creates a rhombus. Vertex coordinates (x, y) are clockwise, relative to the element's box.

Introducing the CSS clip-path Property

Clipping with geometry-box

<code>.clip-me {
  clip-path: polygon(10% 20%, 20% 30%, 50% 80%) margin-box;
  margin: 10%;
}
        </code>

Here, margin-box is the reference. SVG elements use fill-box, stroke-box, or view-box.

Uses of clip-path

clip-path enhances text and images. Complex shapes are easily achievable.

Introducing the CSS clip-path Property
<code>.p-msg {
  clip-path: polygon(0% 0%, 100% 0%, 100% 75%, 75% 85%, 75% 100%, 50% 80%, 0% 75%);
}
        </code>

Image galleries and avatars benefit from non-rectangular shapes.

<code>.right {
  clip-path: polygon(50% 0%, 100% 50%, 50% 100%, 0% 50%);
  position: relative;
  top: -352px;
  left: 256px;
}
        </code>

Adding Animation

Animate clip-path, but maintain consistent vertex counts for smooth transitions.

<code>@keyframes polygons {
  25% {
    clip-path: polygon(20% 0%, 100% 38%, 70% 90%, 0% 100%);
  }
  50% {
    clip-path: polygon(0 46%, 100% 15%, 55% 74%, 0 100%);
  }
  70% {
    clip-path: polygon(100% 38%, 100% 38%, 66% 100%, 0 53%);
  }
}
        </code>

Browser Support

IE and Edge lack support. Firefox has partial support (url() syntax, potentially enabled via a flag). Chrome, Safari, and Opera require -webkit- prefixes. Check Can I Use for the latest information.

Conclusion

clip-path offers significant design possibilities. Tools like clippy and CSS Plant's clip path generator simplify complex polygon creation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the CSS Clip-Path Property and How Does it Work?

clip-path cuts away parts of an element, defining a display region. It accepts basic shapes, geometry boxes, or SVG paths, enabling complex shapes and animations.

How Can I Use the Polygon Function in CSS Clip-Path?

The polygon() function uses (x, y) coordinate pairs to define a polygon's vertices. For example, clip-path: polygon(50% 0%, 100% 50%, 50% 100%, 0% 50%) creates a diamond.

Can I Use CSS Clip-Path Property for Responsive Design?

Yes, use percentages in shape parameters for scaling with the element's size.

Is it Possible to Animate the CSS Clip-Path Property?

Yes, using keyframes and the animation property. Keep vertex counts consistent for smooth transitions.

What Browsers Support the CSS Clip-Path Property?

Most modern browsers support it (check Can I Use for updates).

How Can I Use the Circle Function in CSS Clip-Path?

circle(radius at position) creates a circle. For example, clip-path: circle(50% at 50% 50%) centers a circle within the element.

Can I Use an SVG as a Clip-Path in CSS?

Yes, using the url() function to reference an SVG <clippath></clippath> element.

What is the Difference Between Clip and Clip-Path in CSS?

clip is deprecated and only supports rectangular clipping. clip-path is far more versatile.

How Can I Use the Inset Function in CSS Clip-Path?

inset(top right bottom left [round border-radius]) creates a rectangle with optional rounded corners.

Can I Use Multiple Shapes in a Single CSS Clip-Path?

Yes, using the path() function with SVG path syntax.

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