Canva

How to Unlock and Lock Pages in Canva (Partially & Fully)

Q: Can I move text or icons when a page is partially locked?

No, partial lock blocks moving or editing of any element— only image replacement is allowed.

May 9, 2025

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To lock or unlock a Canva page, click the lock icon at the top. One click enables partial lock—allowing image replacements but no edits. Click again to fully lock the page, blocking all movement or changes. Click a third time to fully unlock.

Working in Canva and want to control what can be edited on a page?

Whether you’re sharing a design or just want to protect your layout, Canva lets you partially or fully lock pages.

This guide walks you through each lock type—what they do and how to toggle them step-by-step.

Table of Contents

How to Lock and Unlock Pages in Canva

Step 1: Spot the Lock Icon

Open any design in Canva and look at the top of the page.
You’ll see a lock icon. Hover over it—it might say “Only allow replacing content.”

Step 2: Click Once for Partial Lock

Click the lock icon once. It will change to say “Lock page.”
This enables a partial lock. You can replace elements (like images), but not move, edit, or crop them.
For example:
- Try dragging a new image onto an existing one—it will replace the image, but the frame stays locked in place.
- You cannot move the image, crop it, or adjust it.
- Text, icons, and other elements are also non-editable but visible.

Step 3: Click Again to Fully Lock the Page

Click the lock icon a second time to fully lock the page.
Now:
- You can’t replace images anymore.
- You can’t add new elements to the page.
- You can’t move, edit, or drag anything at all.
The page is completely frozen for edits.

Step 4: Click a Third Time to Unlock

Click the lock icon one more time.
This fully unlocks the page—you can now:
- Move and edit text, images, icons, and layouts.
- Replace elements freely.
- Add new design pieces to the page.

If you’re collaborating or building a template, this feature is great for keeping the design structure intact.

For brand consistency, you might also want to explore Canva Brand Kit for locking in your brand colors and fonts.

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FAQ: How to Unlock and Lock Pages in Canva

What’s the difference between partial and full lock in Canva?

Partial lock lets you replace elements without moving or editing them. Full lock prevents any changes, including replacements.

How do I replace an image on a partially locked page?

Just drag a new image into the existing image placeholder. It will replace the current image without letting you edit it.

Can I move text or icons when a page is partially locked?

No, partial lock blocks moving or editing of any element—only image replacement is allowed.

What happens if I try to add something to a fully locked page?

Canva won’t allow it. You can’t move, replace, or add anything to the page.

How do I fully unlock a Canva page again?

Keep clicking the lock icon until it shows the page is completely unlocked and everything is editable.

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How to Unlock and Lock Pages in Canva (Partially & Fully)