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Adding color gradients is a breeze with GIMP
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Do you want to include a layer of a rainbow or colors blending, like in a gradient, in your GIMP image? Using the Gradient Tool makes this a simple process that anyone can do! Read on to learn more about how to make gradients in GIMP. Note that this method works with the updated versions of GIMP (2.10+).

Quick Steps

  1. Press G on your keyboard to activate the Gradient Tool.
  2. Use the gradient icon in the Tool Options window to adjust how your gradient appears.
  3. Drag and drop your mouse over your canvas to draw the gradient.
  4. Edit it more in the Tool Options window to change how it looks.
  5. Save your file.
  1. 1
    Press G to select the Gradient fill icon. Alternatively, you can click the Gradient Tool icon in the toolbox, which shares a button with Bucket Fill, or select the tool by going to Tools > Paint Tools > Gradient.
  2. 2
    Select a gradient style from the "Opacity" menu. This menu, which has a gradient icon, is in the Gradient options in the right panel. The gradient thumbnails offer various presets, like blending from pink to blue, but you can also adjust the blending options or colors to customize how it looks.
    • You can also set the gradient shape (circular, rectangular, or linear), opacity (how much you can see through it), and if the gradient repeats.[1]
    • If you don't see the Gradient panel, enable it in Windows > Dockable Dialogs > Tool Options.
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  3. You can click and drag points on the gradient to adjust it after it's on the screen.
    • Return to the options toolbar to further adjust how the gradient looks.
  4. 4
    Save the file. Once you are happy with the gradient, click File and select Save.[2]
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About This Article

Darlene Antonelli, MA
Written by:
wikiHow Technology Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Darlene Antonelli, MA. Darlene has been writing and editing tech content at wikiHow since 2019. She previously worked for AppleCare, served as a writing tutor, volunteered in IT at an animal rescue, and taught as an adjunct professor for EN101 and EN102. Darlene has completed Coursera courses on technology, writing, and language. She holds both a BA (2011) and an MA (2012) from Rowan University in Writing, with a focus on workplace communication. With her extensive experience, academic background, and ongoing learning, Darlene has become the go-to grammar expert for her friends and family, as well as a skilled wordsmith for anyone in need. This article has been viewed 160,857 times.
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Co-authors: 6
Updated: October 7, 2024
Views: 160,857
Categories: GIMP
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 160,857 times.

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