How to Create a Mockup in Canva

Canva's current Mockups app can place a logo, screenshot or artwork into device, apparel, packaging, print and home-decor scenes. In the editor, select the source image, choose Apps > Mockups, pick a scene, then adjust the crop and apply the result.

A laptop mockup created in Canva — Mockups help clients visualize a design in context, but they are presentation images rather than production proofs.

Create a mockup from an uploaded image

Open Canva and create a design at the final presentation size.
Upload a clean PNG, JPG or PDF of the artwork. For a screen mockup, capture the interface at an appropriate aspect ratio and resolution.
Add the artwork to the page and select it.
Choose Edit, then under Apps select Mockups. You can also open Apps from the editor sidebar and choose Canva's Mockups app.
Browse the available scenes and select one that matches the intended product or device.
Adjust fit, fill, alignment or crop so no important content is cut off, then choose Apply changes.
Place the result in the design, add any supporting text, and download or share the completed presentation.

What the older screenshots show

The workflow below uses Canva's older Smartmockups interface. Smartmockups.com closed in September 2024, and Canva now directs users to its integrated Mockups tools. The general sequence�upload, choose a scene, adjust and export�remains useful even though the buttons have changed.

Create Design and Edit Image in an older Canva interface — Legacy start screen: current users can begin with a new design or upload.

Selecting an image for a Canva mockup — Choose the artwork or screenshot to place in the mockup.

Use in design button in Canva — Add the uploaded asset to a design.

Edit Image control in an older Canva editor — Select the source image before opening the mockup tool.

Smartmockups section in the old Canva toolbar — The former Smartmockups entry has been replaced by Canva Mockups.

Selecting a laptop mockup template — Choose a scene that matches the real device or product.

Artwork placed into a laptop screen mockup — Inspect the crop, angle and fit after the scene is applied.

Share and Download controls in Canva — Open Share, then select Download for a local copy.

Canva export format options — Choose a suitable format and quality for the destination.

Saving the downloaded mockup file — Use a descriptive filename and keep the editable Canva project.

Prepare the source design

Match the aspect ratio: a mobile screenshot in a laptop frame will crop poorly.
Use adequate resolution: low-resolution artwork remains blurry inside a high-resolution mockup.
Keep safe margins: do not place essential text against edges that a frame may hide.
Use transparency deliberately: a transparent logo can sit naturally on apparel or packaging; screen designs usually need a complete rectangular background.
Remove temporary guides: export the clean artboard, not selection handles or layout notes.

Choose the right mockup

Design	Useful mockup types
Website or app	Phone, tablet, laptop or browser frame
Logo	Signage, stationery, packaging or apparel
Poster or artwork	Wall frame, billboard or print sheet
Book cover	Paperback, hardcover or e-reader
Packaging	Box, pouch, bottle or label scene that matches the real structure

Mockup limitations

A mockup demonstrates appearance, not manufacturing accuracy. It does not validate print color, material, dimensions, folds, screen responsiveness, accessibility or product safety. Use dielines, physical proofs, device testing and production specifications for final approval.

Licensing and honest presentation

Use artwork, logos and photographs you own or are licensed to use.
Do not imply that a concept is a manufactured product or live application when it is only a mockup.
Check the license for the selected scene before commercial distribution. Canva says exported Mockups images may be used in personal and commercial projects but may not be resold or redistributed as new mockups.
Keep the editable design and the original source artwork separately.

Canva's official Mockups instructions document the current editor path, and its Mockups overview explains supported uses and licensing. The Smartmockups closure notice confirms the old standalone site is gone. For alternatives, compare mockup resource websites, Canva alternatives, or photo collage tools.