SVG URL Encoder
Convert SVG to CSS background-image format
Encode and decode SVG code for use in CSS background-image property. Better UX than other tools - instant encoding, one-click copy, file size comparison, and live preview. 100% client-side processing, no server uploads.
SVG Input
Why URL-encode SVG?
- Use SVG directly in CSS without external files
- Smaller file size than base64 encoding
- Works in all modern browsers
- No additional HTTP requests
Encoded Output
CSS Usage
Live Preview
SVG Encoding Examples
Simple Circle
Basic SVG shape encoded for CSS background
View SVG Code
<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 100 100">
<circle cx="50" cy="50" r="40" fill="#5AE87E"/>
</svg>Checkered Pattern
Repeating pattern for backgrounds
View SVG Code
<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 40 40">
<path d="M0 20h20v20H0zM20 0h20v20H20z" fill="#3AC5A0" opacity=".2"/>
</svg>Gradient Background
SVG gradient in CSS
View SVG Code
<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 200 100">
<defs>
<linearGradient id="g" x1="0%" y1="0%" x2="100%" y2="100%">
<stop offset="0%" stop-color="#5AE87E"/>
<stop offset="100%" stop-color="#21B8F0"/>
</linearGradient>
</defs>
<rect width="200" height="100" fill="url(#g)"/>
</svg>How to Use in Your CSS
.my-element {
background-image: url("data:image/svg+xml,...");
}.pattern-background {
background-image: url("data:image/svg+xml,...");
background-repeat: repeat;
background-size: 40px 40px;
}.icon-background {
background-image: url("data:image/svg+xml,...");
background-repeat: no-repeat;
background-position: center;
background-size: contain;
}Frequently Asked Questions
Why We Built This SVG URL Encoder
SVG graphics are powerful, scalable, and essential for modern web design - but using them efficiently in CSS can be frustrating. Most SVG URL encoders are clunky, slow, or missing critical features. We built this tool to solve real developer pain points: instant encoding without page reloads, one-click copying for rapid workflow, file size comparison to show the efficiency of URL encoding vs base64, live preview to verify your SVG renders correctly, and the ability to decode existing encoded SVGs for editing. This is the SVG encoder we wanted to exist - fast, intuitive, and packed with the features developers actually need.
Embedding SVG directly in CSS using data URLs offers significant advantages over external SVG files or base64 encoding. First, it eliminates HTTP requests - your SVG loads instantly with your CSS, improving page performance. Second, URL-encoded SVG is 20-30% smaller than base64-encoded SVG because it preserves the readable text structure while only encoding special characters. Third, inline SVG in CSS simplifies deployment - no need to manage separate image files or worry about file paths. Fourth, it enables dynamic styling - you can use CSS variables and media queries to customize SVG colors and properties. However, using SVG in CSS requires proper URL encoding to escape special characters like #, <, >, quotes, and parentheses that would break CSS syntax. Manual encoding is tedious and error-prone, which is where this tool shines.
Our SVG URL encoder is designed for real-world developer workflows. The "Load Example" button lets you quickly test the tool with the RJL.io logo - perfect for learning how SVG encoding works. The instant encoding engine processes SVG the moment you click, with no artificial delays or loading spinners. File size statistics show exactly how many bytes you are saving compared to unencoded SVG or base64 alternatives. The bidirectional encoding supports both encoding fresh SVG and decoding existing CSS to extract and edit SVG code. The live preview catches common mistakes like missing xmlns attributes or malformed XML before you copy the code into production. And the ready-to-use CSS output includes proper syntax so you can paste directly into your stylesheets without formatting issues. Whether you are creating icon backgrounds, decorative patterns, or complex vector graphics, this tool handles it all with professional-grade accuracy and convenience.
Beyond basic encoding, this tool educates developers on SVG optimization best practices. Use currentColor in your fill attributes to make SVG inherit text color for themeable icons. Minimize SVG file size by removing unnecessary whitespace and comments before encoding. Use viewBox instead of fixed width/height for better responsiveness. Combine multiple SVG elements into a single encoded string for complex multi-layer backgrounds. Leverage SVG gradients and patterns for visually rich backgrounds without images. RJL.io is committed to building tools that not only solve immediate problems but also teach best practices - and this SVG URL encoder exemplifies that mission by combining powerful functionality with educational examples to make developers more effective at using SVG in production.