Create and use colour gradients
Use gradients to add depth, movement, and vibrancy to your designs. Choose from default gradient styles or create custom color blends that match your vision.
You can apply gradients to text, backgrounds, shapes, table cells, frames, and Brand Kits. To set up your brand colors, see Setting up and using Brand Kit color palettes.
Using gradients on Canva Docs isn’t supported yet.
Apply gradients to elements and text
Apply default gradient styles
- Select the element or text you want to edit, then click the Color tile on the editor toolbar.
- Scroll down to the Gradients section. Hover over the gradient color to see their names.
- From the default gradient options, select your preferred gradient style to apply it.
The improved Color panel now shows more default colors along with their display names when hovered over, except for colors in Brand Kits, which can be named and added when creating a palette.
Create custom gradients
Create custom gradients
- Select the element you want to edit.
- On the editor toolbar, select the Color tile.
- Under Document colors, click (Add a new color) to add a new color.
- Go to the Gradient tab.
- Under Gradient colors, click (Add a new color) to add a new gradient color. You can add up to 10 gradient colors.
- To delete a color, select the color tile that you want to delete, then click the Delete icon.
Select and drag the colour stops to rearrange them. Change the style of your gradient by using preset styles under Styles.
Fade a color to transparent
Want part of your design to gently fade out? Here's how to create a gradient that fades to transparency.
Create a colour gradient that fades to transparency
Creating a color gradient that fades to transparency using Canva is easy. To help you achieve this effect, here is a step-by-step guide:
- Select the element you’d like to edit, then click the Color tile on the editor toolbar.
- Under Document colors, click the to add a new color.
- Go to the Gradient tab.
- Click a color stop, then lower its transparency to 0% to make it fully transparent.
Tip: For a smooth fade, use the same base color for both solid and transparent stops.
Limitations and known issues
Where gradients don't work yet:
- Charts and sheet cells
- Polls and quiz elements
- Inline text in Canva Docs (only works in Design Blocks and Banners)
Text gradient limitations:
- Formatting: Underline, strikethrough, superscript, and subscript may only show the first gradient color.
- Text effects: Some effects may not work properly with gradients.
- Exporting: PDF and SVG exports support gradient text, but macOS Preview may show them as solid colors. For accurate results, use Adobe apps or export as PNG or JPG.
Gradient text not showing?
- Check that your design type supports gradient text.
- In Canva Docs, use Design Blocks or Banners.
- Remove any formatting that might interfere with the gradient.
Transparency issues?
For smooth fading, make sure transparent and solid colors share the same base color.
FAQs
Is the gradient feature free?
Yes, gradients are free for all Canva users.
How many colors can I add to a gradient?
You can add up to 10 colors to create complex gradient effects.
Why doesn't my gradient text show in Canva Docs?
In Canva Docs, gradient text only works in Design Blocks and Banners, not in regular inline text.
Can I apply gradients to charts?
Gradients aren't supported in charts or sheet cells yet. As a workaround, add a separate gradient text box near your chart.
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