Agent skill · design visual · axtonliu
obsidian-canvas-creator
Create Obsidian Canvas files from text content, supporting both MindMap and freeform layouts. Use this skill when users want to visualize content as an interactive canvas, create mind maps, or organize information spatially in Obsidian format.
Why this skill is useful
Generates structured JSON files for Obsidian Canvas that include specific layout algorithms and node sizing guidelines not commonly found in public documentation.
What it needs
About 4k tokens when loaded. Last updated 2026-06-26. 3,277 stars on the source repository.
What this skill does
Obsidian Canvas Creator Transform text content into structured Obsidian Canvas files with support for MindMap and freeform layouts. When to Use This Skill User requests to create a canvas, mind map, or visual diagram from text User wants to organize information spatially User mentions "Obsidian Canvas" or similar visualization tools Converting structured content (articles, notes, outlines) into visual format Core Workflow 1. Analyze Content Read and understand the input content: Identify main topics and hierarchical relationships Extract key points, facts, and supporting details Note any existing structure (headings, lists, sections) 2. Determine Layout Type Ask user to choose or infer from context: MindMap Layout: Radial structure from center Parent-child relationships Clear hierarchy Good for: brainstorming, topic exploration, hierarchical content Freeform Layout: Custom positioning Flexible relationships Multiple connection types Good for: complex networks, non-hierarchical content, custom arrangements 3. Plan Structure For MindMap: Identify central concept (root node) Map primary branches (main topics) Organize secondary branches (subtopics) Position leaf nodes (details) For Freeform: Group related concepts Identify connection patterns Plan spatial zones Consider visual flow 4. Generate Canvas Create JSON following the Canvas specification: Node Creation: Assign unique 8-12 character hex IDs Set appropriate dimensions based on content length Apply consistent color schemes Ensure no coordinate overlaps Edge Creation: Connect parent-child relationships Use appropriate arrow styles Add labels for complex relationships Choose line styles (straight for hierarchy, curved for cross-references) Grouping (Optional): Create visual containers for related nodes Use subtle background colors Add descriptive labels 5. Apply Layout Algorithm MindMap Layout Calculations: Refer to references/layout-algorithms.md for detailed algorithms. …
How to use it
Reference it in AdaL, Claude Code, Cursor or any coding agent — nothing to install:
@skills axtonliu/obsidian-canvas-creator