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Turn a YouTube video into Shorts

Start with a video file or import an individual YouTube video when link import is enabled. Choose 9:16, set a clip length or highlight count, and generate captioned MP4s for YouTube Shorts.

or

MP4, MOV or WebM · up to 2 GB and 30 min · YouTube import when enabled

See how it works

How it works

  1. Paste one YouTube video link

    Use a video you can repurpose when YouTube import is enabled, or upload the source file.

    youtube.com/watch?v=…
    08:40

  2. Frame it for Shorts

    Choose 9:16 and use blurred fit if your widescreen recording has details near the edges.

    Style & format
    Output
    9:16 vertical
    Framing
    Blurred fit
    Captions
    Clean bar

  3. Review your Shorts

    Check that each clip makes sense on its own, then download the finished MP4.

    0:38
    Here’s how it works
    YouTube Shorts · 9:16
Video clipping tools

Import your source

When YouTube import is enabled, choose YouTube link in Create clips and paste the URL of an individual video you have permission to repurpose. You can also upload a video file.

Find an excerpt that stands alone

For an interview or tutorial, pick Automatic Best Moments and review each candidate for a complete answer or demonstration. For a numbered series, set one length in Fixed-Length Clipping.

Check the vertical frame

Use blurred fit for screen recordings with text near the edges. Check captions and framing in the exported MP4 before uploading it to YouTube or using a connected account.

Frequently asked questions

Can I paste a playlist?
Use an individual YouTube video link. Clipforge creates one clipping project from one source video.
Can I publish from Clipforge?
Download finished MP4s from your library. When publishing is enabled for a connected account, you can also publish or schedule to YouTube, TikTok, Instagram or a Facebook Page.
Explore video clipping guides