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SVG to CSS Background Converter Encode SVG code as a CSS background-image using data URI encoding.

SVG to CSS Background illustration
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SVG to CSS Background

Encode SVG code as a CSS background-image using data URI encoding.

1

Paste SVG code

Enter or paste your SVG markup into the input field.

2

Set background properties

Configure background-size, repeat, and position settings.

3

Copy the CSS

Preview the SVG as a background and copy the CSS code.

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What Is SVG to CSS Background?

The SVG to CSS Background tool converts SVG code into a CSS background-image using data URI encoding. This technique embeds SVG directly in your CSS without requiring separate image files or HTTP requests. Simply paste your SVG code, configure background-size, background-repeat, and background-position, and the tool generates the encoded CSS. Data URI encoding replaces special characters (like <, >, #) with URL-safe equivalents so the SVG can be safely embedded in a CSS url() function. The preview shows the SVG applied as a background on a sample element. This approach is ideal for small icons, patterns, and decorative elements that you want to include in your CSS without external file dependencies.

Why Use SVG to CSS Background?

  • No separate image files needed—SVG embedded directly in CSS
  • Eliminates HTTP requests for small SVG assets
  • Configurable background-size, repeat, and position
  • Live preview shows the SVG as a CSS background

Common Use Cases

Icon Backgrounds

Embed small icon SVGs directly in CSS for buttons and list markers.

Pattern Backgrounds

Encode repeating SVG patterns as CSS backgrounds without image files.

Decorative Elements

Add SVG decorations to pseudo-elements via CSS backgrounds.

Email Templates

Include SVG graphics in CSS for email templates where external images may be blocked.

Technical Guide

SVG data URIs use the format: url("data:image/svg+xml,<encoded-svg>"). The SVG content is URL-encoded by replacing special characters: < becomes %3C, > becomes %3E, # becomes %23, and quotes are converted to single quotes. This encoding is more efficient than base64 for SVG as it maintains readability and is typically smaller. The background-image property accepts the data URI, and standard background properties (size, repeat, position) control the rendering. For large SVGs, consider using external files instead, as large data URIs increase CSS file size and cannot be cached independently. Background-size: contain scales the SVG to fit within the element while maintaining aspect ratio. Background-size: cover fills the element, potentially cropping the SVG. Specific pixel or percentage values give precise control.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    Use URL encoding (not base64) for smaller file size with SVG
  • 2
    Remove unnecessary SVG attributes to minimize the encoded size
  • 3
    Keep SVGs small—large data URIs bloat CSS and cannot be cached separately
  • 4
    Use single quotes in SVG to avoid escaping issues in CSS

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q Is data URI encoding better than base64 for SVG?
Yes, URL-encoded SVG is typically smaller than base64 and remains human-readable in CSS.
Q Can I encode any SVG as a data URI background?
Yes, any valid SVG code can be encoded. Remove unnecessary attributes and whitespace for optimal size.
Q Do SVG data URIs work in all browsers?
Yes, SVG data URIs in CSS backgrounds are supported in all modern browsers.
Q How do large SVGs affect data URI performance?
Large SVGs increase CSS file size, and data URIs cannot be cached independently from the stylesheet. For complex SVGs, use external files instead.
Q Can I use data URI SVGs in <img> tags?
Yes, the same data URI format works in img src attributes and CSS background-image.

About This Tool

SVG to CSS Background is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.