Select an object or group (or a layer in the Layers panel).
Last updated on
Sep 11, 2025
Learn how to apply default, custom, and imported SVG effects, as well as create and apply new SVG effects.
You can use SVG effects (filters) to add graphic properties like drop shadows to artwork. SVG effects are XML-based and resolution-independent, rendered on the target object instead of the source graphic.
You can apply a default SVG effect, customize it by editing its XML code, or create new effects.
Note
To modify Illustrator’s default SVG filters, edit the Adobe SVG Filters.svg file in the following location using a text editor:
macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/Adobe/Adobe Illustrator <version>/<locale>
Windows: C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator <version> Settings\<locale>\x64
Apply a default effect
Select Effect > SVG Filters and select a default effect from the list.
Apply a custom effect
Select an object, group, or layer.
Select Effect > SVG Filters > Apply SVG Filter.
In the Apply SVG Filter dialog box, select an effect and then select Edit SVG Filter .
Edit the default code and select OK to save changes.
Select OK again to apply the edited effect.
Create and apply a new effect
Select an object, group, or layer.
Select Effect > SVG Filters > Apply SVG Filter.
In the Apply SVG Filter dialog box, select New SVG Filter .
Enter the code for the new effect and select OK.
Select OK again to apply the new effect.
When you apply an SVG filter effect, Illustrator shows a rasterized version of the effect on the artboard. You can change the resolution of this preview image by going to Effect > Document Raster Effects Settings and changing the Resolution.
Note
When an object has multiple effects applied, you can view the SVG effect in the Appearance panel. If any effects follow an SVG effect, the SVG output will consist of a raster object.
Import effects from an SVG file
Select Effect > SVG Filters > Import SVG Filter.
Select the SVG file you want to import effects from and select Open.
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