> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://captivatehelp.newbluelive.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://captivatehelp.newbluelive.com/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2.md).

# Build a graphic from scratch

Build a graphic from a blank canvas using Captivate’s design layers — text, shapes, images, video — and the styling and arrangement tools around them.

Reach for this chapter when no Library template fits and you need full creative control. Each article covers one layer type or one editing operation; work through them in order to build a complete graphic, or jump to the one you need. Familiarity with the Designer Workspace is assumed.

**💡 TIP**\
If a stock graphic is already close to what you want, it’s usually faster to start from one and adjust it. See [Modify an existing template](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index.md) first, and build from scratch only when no template fits.

## What’s in this chapter

* [Add and modify text layers](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/add-and-modify-text-layers.md) — start every graphic with the text it needs.
* [Add and modify shape layers](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/add-and-modify-shape-layers.md) — backgrounds, bars, geometric accents.
* [Import images and videos as design layers](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/import-images-videos-and-audio.md) — bring in logos, footage, and stills.
* [Add styles to design layers](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/add-styles-to-design-layers.md) — fills, gradients, outlines, drop shadows.
* [Align and arrange design layers](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/align-and-arrange-design-layers.md) — layout and stacking order.
* [Customize lighting and camera settings](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/customize-lighting-and-camera-settings.md) — 3D look across the scene.
* [Customize a design layer’s motion and additional properties](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/customize-motion-and-additional-properties.md) — per-layer movement and extras.
* [Group design layers in a graphic](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/group-design-layers-in-a-graphic.md) — keep related layers together.
* [Import Captivate and legacy Titler Live graphics](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/import-legacy-graphics.md) — reuse an existing graphic as a starting point.
* [Build a graphic end to end](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-2/make-a-graphic-tutorial.md) — a complete worked example that ties the pieces together, from a blank canvas to a saved, variable-driven graphic.

## Related

* [Designer overview & Workspace](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-1.md) — read this first if the Workspace is unfamiliar.
* [Animate & transition](/design-and-customize-graphics/chapter-index-3.md) — once layers are placed, give them motion.


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