Whether you’re designing social media graphics, a presentation, or a marketing flyer, outlined text can add that extra pop to your design needs.
The good news?
Canva makes it ridiculously simple. No need for expensive software or spending hours watching tutorials. You can create hollow text in Canva in just a few clicks.
Let’s break it down, step by step. Oh, and expect some sarcasm along the way. You’ve been warned.
Why Would You Even Want to Outline Text?
Outlining text isn’t just for fun (though it is fun). It serves a purpose.
It makes the text stand out – Your design isn’t a game of hide-and-seek if you want text that people actually notice, outlines can help.
It adds a stylish effect – Hollow text looks modern, sleek, and a little fancy. And who doesn’t like looking fancy?
It makes designs look professional – If done right, outlined text can give your design that polished, designer-made feel without hiring an actual designer.
Still with me? Good.
Let’s get to the real reason you’re here.
What Should You Know?
Canva does have a built-in outline effect (Hollow), so no need for weird workarounds.
You can adjust the thickness to get the perfect outline.
Color customization makes outlined text more fun and on-brand.
Not every font works with the Hollow effect, so choose wisely.
Keep your design clean and readable—overly thick outlines can be overwhelming.
Step-by-Step Guide to Outlining Text in Canva
To make everything easier for you, I have prepared also a video tutorial that is simple to follow. You can watch it below.
Step 1: Open Canva & Start a New Project
If you haven’t already, log in to Canva. If you don’t have an account, sign up—it’s free. Then, create a new design. You can choose a template or start with a blank canvas. Your call.
Step 2: Add Your Text
Now, let’s get some text on the screen.
On the left sidebar, click on Text (it’s impossible to miss).
Choose Add a heading, subheading, or body text – depending on what you need.
Type in your text. Maybe something inspirational, like “Eat, Sleep, Canva, Repeat.”
Step 3: Pick a Font
Not all fonts look great when outlined. Pick a bold font for a stronger effect. Canva offers tons of options, so take a second to browse. Chunky, modern, and sans-serif fonts work best.
Step 4: Apply the Hollow Effect (Outline Your Text)
Here comes the trick.
Canva has a built-in feature called Hollow that lets you create outlined text instantly.
Here’s how:
Click on the text you just added.
At the top toolbar, find Effects and click it.
Scroll through the list and select Hollow.
Your text now has an outline. But this is not all.
Step 5: Adjust the Thickness
Outlines are great, but they need to be the right thickness.
Canva gives you a handy slider to customize it:
Slide left for thinner outlines (subtle and clean).
Slide right for thicker outlines (bold and dramatic).
Play around until it looks just right. No rules, just vibes.
Step 6: Change the Outline Color
White outlines? Black outlines? Neon pink? Your call.
Click on the Color Palette at the top.
Pick a color that matches your design.
If you have a specific color code, you can enter it manually. (Perfect for branding!)
And just like that, your text is outlined AND customized.
Step 7: Fine-Tune Your Design
Now that you have your outlined text, here are some pro tips:
Combine it with shadows – Try adding a shadow effect for extra depth.
Use contrast – Dark outlines on light backgrounds pop more.
Keep it readable – Don’t go overboard. If it looks like a neon sign from 1995, maybe tone it down a bit.
Important
Canva Hollow effect only works with certain fonts. If the effect isn’t showing, try switching fonts.
Outlined text works best in bold, simple fonts—thin fonts don’t show the effect well.
Be mindful of readability. Thick outlines can sometimes make the text hard to read.
Outlining text in Canva is easy, and fast, and makes your designs stand out. Whether you’re creating a bold heading, a stylish title, or eye-catching social media graphics, the Hollow effect gets the job done.
FAQs
Can I outline text in Canva without using the Hollow effect?
Yes, but it’s way more complicated. You’d have to duplicate the text, change the color, and layer it behind the original text. Just use the Hollow effect.
Is the Hollow effect available in the free version of Canva?
Canva offers this effect for free. No need to upgrade—unless you want extra fancy features.
Can I use outlined text in Canva for professional designs?
If used well, outlined text can make your designs look sleek and professional. Just don’t go overboard.
Why can’t I see the Hollow effect?
Some fonts don’t support it. Try switching to a bold, sans-serif font.
Can I make the outline multiple colors?
Not directly in Canva. But you can duplicate the text, offset it, and change the color of each layer for a cool multicolor effect.
Does the outlined text work for all types of Canva projects?
Pretty much! Social media posts, presentations, business cards—outlined text fits anywhere you want emphasis.
Here Are Some of My Favorite Tools For Print-on-demand
As a graphic designer and POD seller, I’ve had the opportunity to discover different helpful products and tools that can be time-saving and make the process of creating your designs a bit smoother.
DESIGNS:Kittl (best for t-shirt designs), Vexels (for professional designs), Placeit (for unique product mockups)
Disclosure: Some of the links above may contain affiliate partnerships, meaning, at no additional cost to you, NechEmpire may earn a commission if you click through to make a purchase.
I'm Miroslav, a passionate graphic designer, Etsy seller and AI enthusiast. At NechEmpire, I'm here to share my knowledge and skills. I want to turn your design passion into a successful online business.
