How to See Layers in Canva

Ajay Sai

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3 min read

Learn how to view and manage layers in Canva for organized and professional-looking designs

Canva is a versatile design tool that allows you to layer text, images, and other elements for a polished look.
While Canva doesn’t have a traditional “layers panel” like Photoshop, it offers intuitive ways to manage and view overlapping elements.
This guide will help you understand how to see and manage layers effectively in Canva.

How to See Layers in Canva | Steps to See and Manage Layers in Canva

Step 1: Open Your Canva Design

Log in to your Canva account and open the design project you want to edit.
Navigate to the page where you want to view and manage layers.
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Step 2: Click on Individual Elements

Click on any element (text, shape, or image) in your design to select it.
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The selected element will be highlighted with a bounding box.
You can identify overlapping elements by clicking on them one at a time.

Step 3: Use the Position Tool

With an element selected, click on the "Position" button in the top toolbar.
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Options like "Forward," "Backward," "To Front," and "To Back" will appear.
Use these options to reorder layers and bring specific elements into view.
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Step 4: Drag Elements to Rearrange Layers

Click and hold an element to move it across the canvas.
Drag it over or under other elements to adjust its layer position.
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Canva automatically adjusts the layer order as you move elements.

Step 5: Group or Ungroup Elements

If multiple elements are grouped, select the group and click "Ungroup" to edit individual layers.
After adjusting, you can regroup elements by selecting them and clicking "Group."

Step 6: Lock or Unlock Layers

To prevent accidental edits, select an element and click the "Lock" icon in the top toolbar.
Locked elements remain fixed in place and cannot be moved or edited.
To unlock, click the locked element and select the "Unlock" icon.

Step 7: Use the Layers Shortcut (If Available)

On certain Canva projects, use Ctrl + Click (Windows) or Cmd + Click (Mac) to cycle through overlapping layers.
This method helps you select and manage deeply layered elements.

Conclusion

Although Canva doesn’t have a traditional layers panel, it provides intuitive tools for viewing and managing layers.
By using the Position tool, locking layers, and cycling through elements, you can maintain control over your design and ensure a professional result.
Explore these methods to enhance your layering skills in Canva!

FAQs on Seeing Layers in Canva

Can I view all layers at once in Canva?

No, Canva doesn’t display all layers in a panel, but you can manage them using the Position tool.

What’s the fastest way to reorder layers in Canva?

The Position tool is the quickest way to reorder layers by bringing elements forward or sending them backward.

Can I work with layers across multiple pages in Canva?

Yes! Canva allows you to copy and paste layered designs across pages while maintaining their layer order.
With these steps and tips, you can efficiently manage layers and create stunning designs in Canva!

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