So, you’ve started designing in Canva, and now your text is swallowed by an overexcited background image?
Or maybe you’re stacking elements like a chaotic game of Jenga?
Knowing how to send object to the back in Canva can save your design from looking like a toddler’s sticker book.
Why Sending Object Back in Canva
You’re designing a stunning birthday card. You’ve got a beautiful background image and a heartfelt message on top. But your text disappears because the background is sitting on top like an overgrown houseplant blocking the view.
That’s where the “Send to Back” feature comes in.
It helps you arrange elements properly, ensuring your text, images, and graphics aren’t battling for attention like reality show contestants.
What Should You Know?
Right-clicking is your best friend in Canva.
There are two ways to send objects back: one step at a time or all the way to the bottom.
The Layers Panel is magic—use it to stay organized.
Canva, thankfully, gives you two ways to move objects backward:
Send Backward – Moves an object back one layer at a time
Send to Back – Moves an object all the way to the bottom layer
Let’s go over each method like a true Canva pro (or at least someone pretending to be one).
Method 1: Send an Object Backward (One Step at a Time)
Sometimes, you want precise control over where an object sits.
Instead of getting it to the bottom of the pile, you just need to nudge it back a layer.
Here’s how:
Right-click on the object that needs to move.
Find the “Layer” option in the menu.
Click “Send Backward” to push the object back one step.
This is perfect when working with multiple layers. Instead of sending your element straight to Canva purgatory, you can move it strategically.
Method 2: Send an Object to the Back (Straight to the Bottom)
If you’re sure that an element belongs all the way behind everything else, this is your go-to method.
Right-click on the object you want to send back.
Find the “Layer” option.
Click “Send to Back.”
It’s now sitting at the bottom layer like an obedient background should.
Bonus Tip: Use the Layers Panel
Canva’s Layers Panel is like an X-ray vision for your designs. It shows you every single element in your design so you can move them around without blind guessing.
To access it:
Right-click on any object.
Select “Layer” and then “Show Layers”.
This lets you see your elements in a structured stack—like a pile of pancakes, but less delicious.
You can click and drag layers to reorder them easily.
Important
Use “Send Backward” for small adjustments when working with many layers.
Use “Send to Back” only when you’re sure the element should sit at the very bottom.
Check the Layers Panel when dealing with lots of overlapping elements to avoid confusion.
If things go wrong, hit CTRL + Z (Undo) as your life depends on it.
There you go! Now you’re a layering expert in Canva. No more lost text, no more overlapping disasters—just clean, well-organized designs.
FAQs
Can I send objects forward instead of backward?
Just right-click your object and choose “Bring Forward” or “Bring to Front” if you want to move it up the stack.
What if my object disappears after sending it back?
It’s likely hiding behind another element. Open the Layers Panel and drag it to the correct position.
Can I lock an object in place so I don’t accidentally move it?
Select the object and click the Lock icon on the toolbar. It’ll stay put.
Is there a shortcut for sending objects back?
Unfortunately, Canva doesn’t have a direct shortcut for this. But right-clicking and choosing the option is the fastest way.
Why doesn’t my “Send to Back” option work?
If the object is already at the bottom, Canva won’t let you send it back further. Also, some grouped elements can’t be rearranged without ungrouping first.
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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.
