Turn images into editable layers with Magic Layers
You can transform any flat image into fully editable design layers with Magic Layers. This lets you select, separate, and edit individual elements within an image without rebuilding your design from scratch.
Magic Layers uses AI to break down images while preserving layout, hierarchy, and design intent. It works best with graphic designs, illustrations, and stylised visuals.
Tips:
- Understand your AI usage to learn more about how this feature works
- Prompt like a Pro to get the most out of Magic Layers.
Use Magic Layers
Use Magic Layers From the homepage
- Go to Home.
- Select Magic Layers.
- Click Select Media, then choose an image.
- Wait while Magic Layers processes your image.
- Select a layer to edit, move or delete it.
Use Magic Layers From the editor
- Open or create a design.
- Click Uploads to upload or add an image to your design.
- Select the image.
- Select Edit from the editor toolbar.
- Select Magic Layers.
- Wait while Magic Layers processes your image.
- Select a layer to edit, move, or delete it.
What you can do with Magic Layers
Once your image is separated into layers, you can:
- Move individual elements to new positions
- Delete unwanted objects from your design
- Resize specific elements independently
- Apply effects to individual layers
- Replace elements with new images or graphics
Supported file types
Magic Layers works with:
- PNG files (single-page only)
- JPG files (single-page only)
Magic Layers doesn't support:
- PDF files
- Vector graphics
- Licensed images (e.g, Disney, Hasbro)
- Multi-page documents
- Photo-realistic imagery (results may vary)
To use Magic Layers on a PDF, convert it to a PNG or JPG image first.
Limitations
- Magic Layers works best with graphic designs, illustrations, and stylised visuals. Photo-realistic images may not separate as cleanly.
- Only single-page images are supported. For multi-page documents, export each page as a separate image.
- Results depend on image complexity and resolution. Simple designs with distinct elements produce better results.
- Image dimensions over 5000px on the longest edge aren't currently supported.
Troubleshooting
If Magic Layers isn't working as expected, try these steps:
- Check your file format. Magic Layers only works with PNG and JPG files. If you're using a different format, convert your file first.
- Use a single-page image. Multi-page documents aren't supported. Export each page as a separate image before using Magic Layers.
- Check your AI credits. If you've reached your monthly limit, wait for your credits to reset or upgrade your plan for more access.
- Try a different image. Magic Layers works best with graphic designs and illustrations. If your image is photo-realistic, results may vary.
If the issue persists, contact our support team for help.
FAQs
Why aren't all elements separating correctly?
Magic Layers works best with graphic designs, illustrations, and stylised visuals. Photo-realistic images may not separate as cleanly. For best results, use images with distinct visual elements and clear boundaries between objects.
Can I use Magic Layers on designs I've already created?
Yes. You can use Magic Layers on any image in your design, including uploaded images, images from the Canva library, and flattened exports from other tools.
Why can't I use Magic Layers on my PDF?
Magic Layers only supports PNG and JPG files. To use Magic Layers on a PDF, convert it to a PNG or JPG image first, then upload the converted file to Canva.
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