How to Insert Video Clips into Canva
Canva supports video in both presentations and social media designs. Here are the main ways to add video clips.
Method 1: Upload Video Directly to Canva
You can upload your own video files and use Canva's built-in editor to trim them.
Steps:
- Open the Uploads tab in the left sidebar.
- Click Upload media and select your video file.
- Drag the uploaded video onto your design.
- Click the video and use the Trim option in the toolbar to adjust start and end points.
Limitations:
- You need the video file saved locally or accessible in cloud storage.
- Free accounts have upload storage limits.
Method 2: Embed a YouTube Video
Canva allows embedding YouTube videos directly without uploading a file.
Steps:
- Go to Elements > Video.
- Select the Embed option.
- Paste the YouTube URL.
Limitations:
- Requires an internet connection to play.
- Shows YouTube branding and ads.
- Works only with YouTube URLs.
Method 3: Download from Other Platforms, Then Upload
For videos from TikTok, Instagram, Twitter/X, or other platforms, you typically need to download the file first.
Steps:
- Download the video using the platform's built-in save option or a third-party downloader.
- Upload the file to Canva via the Uploads tab.
- Drag it onto your design and trim in Canva's editor if needed.
Limitations:
- Downloading from some platforms may violate terms of service.
- Third-party downloaders can be unreliable or add watermarks.
Method 4: Use Slidekick to Trim and Export
If you want a specific clip from a video without downloading the full file or dealing with platform restrictions, Slidekick streamlines the process.
With Slidekick:
- Paste the video URL or upload a file.
- Trim to the exact moment.
- Export as MP4 or GIF.
- Download and upload to Canva.
Slidekick handles URL import, screen recording, offline uploads, and exports to MP4 or GIF.
If you insert video clips into Canva regularly, Slidekick lets you paste any URL, trim visually, and export as MP4 or GIF — no install.
Get started with Slidekick
Import, trim, and export presentation clips as GIF or MP4 in one browser tab.