How to Type Symbols in Canva
Canva text boxes accept Unicode characters copied from the web, operating-system character pickers, and mobile keyboards. The main consideration is font support: a character may paste correctly but display as a box or substitute glyph in a font that lacks it.
Best Ways to Enter Symbols
Copy and paste
Copy the exact symbol and paste it into a Canva text box.
System character picker
Use Windows Character Map, the Mac Character Viewer, or a mobile long-press keyboard.
Alternate fonts
Switch to a font with broader Unicode coverage when the symbol is missing.
Separate text elements
Place unusual symbols in their own text element when size, baseline, or font needs differ.
A Reliable Step-by-Step Method
- Create a text boxClick within editable text and place the cursor.
- Paste the symbolUse the normal paste shortcut and confirm the glyph appears.
- Adjust the fontTry a broad Unicode font if the symbol becomes a box.
- Export a testDownload the intended PNG, PDF, or video format and inspect the result.
Common Problems and Fixes
The symbol appears as a square
The font lacks that glyph. Change fonts or use a supported visual element.
The symbol changes after export
Test another font and export format; some effects or substitutions can alter rendering.
Emoji becomes monochrome
Emoji presentation depends on font and platform support. Use an uploaded graphic only when a specific appearance is essential.
Spacing looks uneven
Use separate text elements or adjust letter spacing and baseline manually.
Accuracy and Workflow Tips
- Do not rely on a rare Unicode glyph without testing the final export.
- Use text characters for copyable, searchable text and graphics for tightly controlled appearance.
- Check licensing and accessibility when replacing text with decorative elements.
- Keep visually similar symbols semantically correct in infographics.