How to use Image Overlay and Blend

Choose two images in order: the base first and the overlay second.
Select a supported blend mode, overlay opacity and placement.
Create the composition and inspect clipping or stretched content.
Save the PNG and check it against the background where you intend to use it.

Example: Image Overlay and Blend

A local worked example using the inputs and settings below for image overlay and blend.

You add

Base image, then overlay image: ["red.png (288 bytes)","blue.png (334 bytes)"] Blend mode: "normal" Overlay opacity (%): "50" Overlay placement: "center"

You get

Blended two images using normal at 50% opacity. red-blend.png (80 × 60 pixels)

Options

Opacity and mode: Opacity controls the overlay contribution. Multiply, Screen and other modes use different color-combination rules, so compare the output on the actual base.
Placement: Center and top-left keep the overlay size; fit preserves proportions and stretch can distort them. The base sets the exported dimensions.

Supported inputs and limits

File sizeTwo images; 64 MiB each, 128 MiB total

Working pixels24 megapixels combined

FormatsJPEG, PNG and WebP within decoder limits

Exactly two JPEG, PNG or WebP files, up to 64 MiB each, 128 MiB together and 24 megapixels combined. Each side is at most 10,000 pixels. Opacity is a whole percentage from 0–100. Modes are Normal, Multiply, Screen, Overlay, Darken and Lighten. The first image sets the output dimensions. Center and Top left retain overlay size; Fit preserves proportions; Stretch can distort them. Off-canvas content is clipped. The flattened PNG does not retain editable layers or source metadata.

Where your input is processed

This tool processes your input in this browser. Your text and files are not uploaded to UseFreeTools. Check this tool's limits for anything it may save on your device.

Placement and blending are separate choices

First decide where the overlay belongs and whether its shape may change. Then choose how its colours combine with the base. Stretch can alter proportions, while fitting inside may leave uncovered space. The file order and output dimensions remain visible parts of that choice.

Questions about Image Overlay and Blend

Which image controls the output dimensions?

The first, base image determines the canvas. Overlay content outside that canvas is clipped rather than expanding the output.

Does Center resize the overlay?

Center places it at its original size. Fit and Stretch use their stated size rules, so select them deliberately when the source dimensions differ.

Why do blend modes produce different colours?

Each supported mode combines channel values differently. Opacity controls the overlay contribution, while transparency and the underlying base still affect the result.

Does this keep the original layers editable?

The exported PNG is a flattened composition. Keep both source files and the chosen settings if you want to make another version.

Project manager: Tony Hines · Content updated 4 October 2026 · Report a problem