How To Merge Split Clips in Davinci Resolve

Editing video clips in a video editing software like Davinci Resolve can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with all the tools and features. One of the handy features of Davinci Resolve is the ability to join separate clips. But how do you merge split clips in Davinci Resolve?

To merge split clips in Davinci Resolve, add the clips to your timeline and select them. Next, right-click and select “New Compound Clip,”. Name the new clip and click “Create” to save your changes.

This post will cover a quick and easy way to merge split clips in a few simple steps! Whether you are an experienced editor or just starting, keep reading to learn how to do this simple task.

Best practices when merging & decomposing clips in DaVinci Resolve

1. Organize your clips: Before merging split clips, make sure to organize them in a logical order in the media pool or bin. This can help you locate the clips quickly and save time during the editing process.
2. Use keyboard shortcuts: Davinci Resolve has several keyboard shortcuts that can make the editing process faster and more efficient. Learn the shortcut keys for selecting, cutting, and merging clips, and use them whenever possible.
3. Name your clips: When creating a new compound clip, make sure to give it a descriptive name that reflects its contents. This can help you locate the clip more easily in the media pool or bin.
4. Test the merged clip: Once you have merged the split clips, make sure to test the merged clip to ensure that it plays back smoothly and without any issues. This can help you identify and fix any problems before you start editing.
5. Use the “Decompose in place” feature with caution: While the “Decompose in place” feature can be useful for breaking apart merged clips, use it with caution as it can cause changes to the clips’ attributes, such as speed or effects. Always make a backup of your project before using this feature.

How to merge split clips in DaVinci Resolve: Step-by-step guide

1. Add the clips to your timeline 

First, ensure the split clips are in the same timeline. If they are not, follow these easy steps:

1. Drag and drop the first clip from your media pool directly onto your timeline.
2. Repeat step 1 for the second clip. Alternatively, hold down the “Shift” key while clicking on each clip. That will select them simultaneously, allowing you to add them quickly and easily. 

2. Select the clips

Once your clips are in the timeline, you must select them. Here are a few simple ways to do that:

1. If you’re on Windows, hold “SHIFT“ and click on each clip you want to select.
2. If you’re on a Mac, use the “COMMAND” key to select multiple clips.

3. Right-click & select “New Compound Clip” 

Here’s what to do once you’ve selected the clips you want to merge:

1. Right-click on the selected clips.
2. From the pop-up window, select “New Compound Clip“. That will open another window where you can name and create the new compound clip containing all your selected clips.  

4. Name your new clip 

In this window, follow these steps:

1. Give your new clip a name you can easily remember and identify later.
2. Click “Create” in the bottom right corner to finalize your changes. That will generate a new clip in the media pool with your merged clips.  
3. Finally, test out the merged clip by double-clicking it in the media pool and playing back what it looks like.

Note: To break apart the clip again if needed, right-click on it and select “Decompose in place” > “Using Clips Only“, which should break it back into its individual parts for editing purposes. 

The following video also provides handy instructions for merging split clips in Davinci Resolve:

Conclusion

Merging split clips in Davinci Resolve is a simple process that can be accomplished with just a few steps. By adding the clips to the timeline, selecting them, and creating a new compound clip, users can merge clips and start editing in no time.

The ability to easily break apart the clip again with the “Decompose in Place” feature adds even more flexibility to the process. Whether you are an experienced editor or just starting, merging split clips in Davinci Resolve is a quick and easy task that can streamline your video editing workflow.