# How I create SVG placeholder images for layouts

A beginner-friendly guide to placeholder images, dimensions, labels, colours, and using SVG placeholders in prototypes.

- Date: 2026-09-27
- URL: https://ilham.dev/posts/how-to-create-svg-placeholder-images/
- Markdown: https://ilham.dev/posts/how-to-create-svg-placeholder-images/index.md
- Tags: svg, placeholder, design, tools
- Reading time: 2 min


SVG placeholders help reserve layout space before final images are ready.

I use [SVG Placeholder](/tools/svg-placeholder/) for the quick version of this task, then I review the output before relying on it.

## The simple idea

SVG placeholders help reserve layout space before final images are ready.

The tool is a shortcut for the mechanical work. It does not remove the need to understand what the result means.

## Step 1: Enter the desired width and height

Enter the desired width and height.

## Step 2: Choose background and text colours

Choose background and text colours.

## Step 3: Add a short label if needed

Add a short label if needed.

## Step 4: Generate the SVG

Generate the SVG.

## Step 5: Use it in prototypes or documentation

Use it in prototypes or documentation.

## Step 6: Replace placeholders before production if real imagery is required

Replace placeholders before production if real imagery is required.

## Step 7: Keep placeholder files clearly named

Keep placeholder files clearly named.

## My checklist

Before I trust the result, I check:

- Enter the desired width and height.
- Choose background and text colours.
- Add a short label if needed.
- Generate the SVG.
- Use it in prototypes or documentation.
- Replace placeholders before production if real imagery is required.
- Keep placeholder files clearly named.

That review step is what keeps a quick tool from becoming a quick mistake.