How to Change Layer Order in Kdenlive Title Editor

When creating titles in Kdenlive, managing overlapping text, rectangles, and graphic elements is crucial for a clean visual hierarchy. This guide provides a straightforward walkthrough on how to adjust the Z-index, or layer order, of elements within the Kdenlive Title Clip editor, ensuring your text and shapes appear exactly where you want them.

Understanding Z-Index in Kdenlive

In graphic and video editing, “Z-index” refers to the depth of overlapping objects on a 2D screen. An object with a higher Z-index value sits in front of (or on top of) an object with a lower Z-index value.

In Kdenlive’s Title Editor, you can change this order using two different methods: the toolbar buttons or the Z-index numerical property.

Method 1: Using the Toolbar Buttons (Quickest)

The easiest way to arrange overlapping shapes and text is by using the positioning buttons located in the Title Editor toolbar.

  1. Double-click your Title Clip in the Project Bin to open the Title Editor, or create a new one.
  2. Click on the shape or text element you want to move.
  3. Look at the toolbar at the top of the Title Editor window. You will see four layer-control icons:
    • Bring to Front (Sends the item to the very top layer).
    • Raise (Moves the item up by one layer).
    • Lower (Moves the item down by one layer).
    • Send to Back (Sends the item to the very bottom layer, behind all other items).
  4. Click the appropriate icon until your element is positioned correctly relative to the other objects.

Method 2: Adjusting the Z-Index Value (Precise)

If you have many overlapping layers and want precise control, you can manually change the Z-index number.

  1. Select the text or shape element you wish to modify.
  2. Look at the Properties panel on the right side of the Title Editor window.
  3. Locate the field labeled Z-Index.
  4. Change the numerical value:
    • Increase the number to move the element closer to the front.
    • Decrease the number (including negative numbers) to move the element further to the back.

By utilizing these tools, you can easily place text on top of colored background rectangles, layer multiple shapes to create custom logos, and maintain complete control over your video overlays.