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How to Curve an Image in Canva: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Curve an Image in Canva

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Are you looking to add a creative twist to your Canva designs?

Curving your images can add dynamism and appeal to your projects. With Canva’s intuitive interface, you can transform your images with ease. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on the latest updates and features in Canva.

You can curve an image in Canva by either inserting it into a unique frame shape or by using the Liquify tool in the old image editor of Canva.

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How to curve an image in Canva

1. Use frames in Canva to quickly curve an image by selecting a frame that fits the desired curve and adjusting the image placement as needed.

2. You can also revert to Canva’s old image editor and use the Liquify tool to apply curved distortions to your image.

Watch the video or read the steps below.

Let’s explore the 2 options in detail.

1. How to curve an image in Canva – with Frames

To curve an image using frames in Canva, select your image, then navigate to the ‘Elements’ tab and choose ‘Frames’. Pick a frame that matches the desired curvature and insert your image, adjusting as needed to achieve the perfect curve.

Here are the detailed steps.

1. Search for Frames

Choose an image in your design. Then, you have to select a frame for your image.

Navigate to the ‘Elements’ tab on the left sidebar and click on ‘Frames’. You’ll see a variety of shapes and styles.

How to Curve an Image in Canva - Select a Frame

2. Choose a frame

Choose a frame with the arc or bend you desire for a curve effect.

Canva offers a lot of unique frames, so you will most likely find something you like.

How to Curve an Image in Canva - Add a Frame

3. Insert Your Image in the Frame

Drag your chosen image from the ‘Uploads’ section or directly upload it into the selected frame. Canva will fit your image into the frame, giving it a curved appearance.

How to Curve an Image in Canva - Apply a Curved Frame

4. Adjust the Image

If necessary, you can click on the image within the frame to reposition or resize it, ensuring the curve is exactly how you want it.

5. Fine-Tune Your Design

Once your image is perfectly curved, you can proceed to fine-tune your design by adding text, other elements, or playing with the background.

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2. How to curve an image in Canva – with Liquify

If you prefer more control over how your images are curved, you can switch back to Canva’s old photo editor before March 29, 2024.

Switch to Canva’s old image editor and use the Liquify tool found in the ‘Edit image’ section. Choose effects like ‘Shake’ or ‘Twirl’ to apply a curved distortion, adjusting intensity and area to perfect the curve.

Here is a step-by-step process.

1. Switch to the Old Editor

Look for the prompt at the bottom of the new photo editor that asks if you “Prefer the old photo editor?” and click on it.

How to Curve an Image in Canva - New Editor Notification

A pop-up will confirm your choice; select “Take me to the old editor.”

How to Curve an Image in Canva - Old Editor Option

2. Use Liquify Tool

Once in the old editor, go to the ‘Edit image’ section and search for ‘Liquify’. You’ll see options such as ‘Shake’, ‘Smear’, ‘Twirl’, and more.

How to Curve an Image in Canva - Liquify Tool Search

3. Apply the Liquify Effect

Select an effect like ‘Shake’ to apply a curved distortion to your image. You can adjust the intensity and the area of the effect.

How to Curve an Image in Canva - Apply Liquify Effect

4. Save Your Curved Image

After you’re satisfied with the curved effect, hit ‘Apply’ to save the changes to your image.

Pro Tip: 

The ‘Shake’ effect in the Liquify tool creates a wave-like distortion, which can mimic a curve when applied appropriately. Experiment with the different liquify options to find the perfect curve for your image.

Conclusion

Canva’s versatility with its new and old photo editors allows you to curve images with ease.

No matter your choice, curving images in Canva is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance the visual interest of your designs.

Other Canva tutorials you may like: 

Other image editing tutorials you may like: 

FAQ: How to Curve an Image in Canva

Yes, you can curve an image in Canva. While there isn’t a direct “curve image” feature, you can achieve a curved effect by inserting your image into one of the many curved frames available in the elements section.

You do not need a Canva Pro account to insert images into frames, which is one method of curving images.

However, some features, like the Background Remover or Magic Eraser, are part of Canva Pro and could be necessary to isolate an image before curving it.

Custom curves are more challenging as Canva does not have a pen tool like some other graphic software. However, you can try to approximate a custom curve by using the liquify tool in the old editor or by creatively layering multiple frames to mimic the desired curve.

You can curve any image as long as you have the right to use it. The image must also be uploaded in a supported format, such as JPEG, PNG, or SVG.

Once an image is curved and saved, you cannot revert it back to its original shape in Canva. It’s recommended to always keep a saved copy of the original image. If you’re experimenting with curves, do so on a duplicate of your image so that you can always start over if needed.

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