Animations

CSS Clip Path

Clipping Elements with Clip Path

CSS clip-path clips elements using polygon() for custom shapes.

Understanding CSS Clip Path

The clip-path property in CSS is a powerful tool for creating custom shapes and clipping elements on your web pages. By using the polygon() function, you can define complex shapes with precision. This technique is often used in web design to create unique visual layouts and animations.

Basic Syntax of clip-path

The clip-path property can take several different shapes as values, but using polygon() allows for the most flexibility. A polygon is defined by a series of points, and each point is defined using a pair of x and y coordinates. These coordinates are percentages of the element's width and height.

Creating a Simple Triangle

To create a simple triangle using clip-path, you need to define the three points of the triangle. For example, you can create a triangle pointing upwards like this:

Complex Shapes with polygon()

The polygon() function supports any number of points, allowing you to create intricate shapes. Here's an example of creating a star shape:

Animating with clip-path

You can animate elements with clip-path by transitioning between different shapes. This can create a dynamic effect on hover or other user interactions. Here's an example of animating a shape on hover:

Browser Support and Considerations

The clip-path property is well-supported in modern browsers, but there are some limitations in older versions. Always check compatibility if you need to support legacy systems. Additionally, complex shapes and animations might have performance implications, so use them judiciously.