Many of us have memories of creating presentations only to spend more time flicking through gradient backgrounds instead of considering what we were writing. It’s a fact, we’ve got a natural inclination towards gradients – the popularity of gradients speaks to that. They’re interesting, versatile and simple.

If you want to give your posters, presentations, logos or other media a subtle, stylish finish, then gradient backgrounds might be the perfect design choice.

Read on and learn more about gradient backgrounds with Adobe Express.

What is a gradient background?

Gradients are defined by a colour smoothly transitioning into a different colour or shade. Gradient backgrounds are backgrounds in visual design that use this same theory, usually to add a bit of visual flair or interest.

You can find gradients that use more than two colours, a single colour with a shift in shade or tone, as well as linear, angular and radial gradients.

The type of gradient is dictated by the pattern – for example, you could have a diagonal line which serves as the origin point of the gradient (linear), or you may have a gradient radiating outward from a centre point (radial). There are also conic gradients – cone-shaped blends of colour.

What are colour gradient backgrounds used for?

Gradients have a lot of uses in creative spaces:

Graphic design.

Gradients are often used in graphic design to give depth or texture to a background. They can provide a sense of movement or light if used well and can help images stand out in the foreground if used cautiously.

Website design.

In web design, gradients can be used to transition between different brand colours and add visual interest to a website. They can also be used to guide a user’s attention.

Photography.

Intelligent usage of gradients can help an image in the foreground stand out or give it a feeling of motion – for example, a gradient background in a photoshoot. Gradients occur naturally in the environment too, and can make for stunning shots – who doesn’t love the image of a late sunset?

Interior design.

While you may not want your wall to look like the slide of a presentation, gradients are sometimes used in interior design. It can aid a gentle and smooth transition of colours, creating a sense of harmony (or flow). Additionally, it can be an intelligent way to add branding to office spaces where you can get more creative.

Signage.

Gradients can be used on signs and to help guide users in a space or even reinforce things like brand identity.

How to create a gradient background on Adobe Express.

It’s easy to design and create a gradient background on Adobe Express. Easily choose between different gradient types and colours or find a template you like to get started.

1. Start or open your project.

Simply start a new project using the blue plus (create) symbol on the left-hand side, then pick your project. For example, you could choose to make an Instagram post, a presentation, or blank document to a specific aspect ratio. Next, click browse templates.

2. Find the gradients add-on.

In the left-hand menu, go down to Add-ons, and search for ‘Gradient’. Select the gradient add-ons of your choice by clicking add and then confirming once more in the pop-out menu.

3. Choose your gradient type and colours.

Now, you can choose from a range of gradient types and colours. Including linear (vertical, diagonal, horizontal), radial (centre, top, bottom, left or right) and conic gradients.

4. Experiment and apply.

Now’s the fun part – experiment, get creative, blend colours and shades, and try different styles. You can test images or text on top of the gradient to see if it obscures your images or gives the effect you want.

5. Save your gradient for future projects.

Once you’re happy with your gradient, save it and use it on future projects. This can be helpful if you want to apply the branding across multiple creations.

How can Adobe Express help you design creative, colourful backgrounds?

Get creative, colourful backgrounds with Adobe Express:

1. Explore our library of free templates.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, a suitable template of a mock-up, or something to work from, we’ve got a library of free gradient background templates ready to use.

2. Generate text effects to go with your backgrounds.

Generate interesting text effects to complement your gradient backgrounds and help your designs thrive. Experiment and see what brings your text to life.

3. Make the most of your colour palettes.

Play with colour palettes to find the shade that best fits your vibe or brand and easily save them for future use. Create your own colour palettes too.

4. Save background templates to your brand kit for future projects.

With Adobe Express, you can easily save background templates for use in future projects. Set up your Adobe brand kit library for instant access to your brand-approved template, even across teams or projects.

5. Apply your gradient background to presentation slides, posters and more.

Take your gradient background and easily apply it to future work, such as a poster or presentation you’re working on. With Adobe, transferring your gradient backgrounds is easy.

Experiment with new background ideas using the AI Background Generator.

Struggling to get started when it comes to generating background gradient ideas?

Experiment with new background ideas with the AI Background Generator and see what inspiration you can conjure.

Define colours, styles and more with a simple prompt and get usable backgrounds in seconds with the Adobe AI Background Generator.

Try Adobe Express for free now

Good to know.

Is a linear or radial gradient background best?

There is no ‘best’ option when it comes to linear or radial gradient backgrounds – each has a different purpose, although linear gradients tend to be more common and easier to use. While more niche, radial backgrounds can be a good way to simulate lighting effects.

What can I apply a gradient background to?

You can apply a gradient to almost anything – whether that’s a logo, a background, a shape, text, or even textiles or other physical materials.

How many colours should I use in a gradient background?

Generally, it’s recommended you use two to three colours, or one colour with a few shades. Keeping things limited can help prevent the gradient from becoming too distracting, which should help with design clarity and cohesiveness.

Is Adobe Express free?

Yes, our free plan offers many core features including thousands of templates, photo editing and effects, animation, and 5 GB of storage. See our pricing page for details and to compare plans.