Creative “Continue Application” Button with Folder & Pencil Animation Using HTML & CSS

A compelling button can elevate the user experience and improve engagement significantly. In this tutorial, we’ll explore how to create a “Continue Application” button with folder and pencil animation, purely with HTML and CSS.

Inspired by desktop-style UI design, this interactive button mimics a folder holding papers, along with a pencil animation that adds a layer of charm and motion. All the elements are styled using modern CSS techniques — no images, JavaScript, or external libraries.

What Makes This Button Unique?

This isn’t just a basic call-to-action. This button combines 3D-styled folder graphics, animated paper effects, and a dynamic pencil, creating a micro-interaction that visually supports the “continue application” message.

On hover:

• The folder’s flap folds open.

• Paper slides and animates inside the folder.

• A pencil moves into view, giving the impression of writing.

• The background subtly darkens for enhanced focus.

• A stylish “X” icon transitions in for additional interactivity.

Breakdown of the Design

1. Core Button Structure

The main button uses padding to make room for the animated folder on the left, styled with variables for easy customization. The div inside the button handles the animated parts.

2. Folder Animation

The folder consists of:

• A top flap (svg path) that folds open with a rotateY animation.

• A paper element inside the folder with animated horizontal lines (using ::before and ::after).

3. Pencil Movement

The pencil is made with a combination of:

• A small cap and body,

• Clipped polygon shapes for the tip,

• Transitions that make it slide in from the right and rotate for a drawing effect.

4. Cross Lines (Optional Close Visual)

The button also has subtle lines forming a cross (::before and ::after), mimicking a close icon on hover, which enhances the visual interaction.

Features & Benefits

 Fully Responsive
 No JavaScript Needed
 Customizable Colors with CSS Variables
 Smooth Transitions and Micro-animations
 Designed for Call-To-Actions (CTAs), Forms, Dashboards

Ideal Use Cases

This button works great for:

• Job or college application forms

• Dashboard task resumption buttons

• File upload systems

• Any modern web interface that wants to offer a creative, memorable user experience

How to Customize

You can easily change:

• Folder and pencil colors using --folder, --pencil-top, etc.

• Animation speed by adjusting transition and transform values

• Text label (e.g., “Resume”, “Edit File”, “Start Application”)

Want to go further? You could add sound on click, or transform the animation into a full submission progress indicator.

Final Thoughts

This animated “Continue Application” button goes beyond simple UI — it tells a story. Using only HTML and CSS, it creates a mini experience that engages users and adds personality to your website or app.