How to Create Beautiful Gradients
Jan 27, 2025
·
3 min read
Gradients are a powerful tool in design, adding depth, texture, and visual appeal. But not all gradients are created equal. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create beautiful gradients that elevate your designs and avoid common pitfalls. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets behind stunning gradient designs.
Avoid going against the grain of color
The first tip on how to create beautiful gradients is to avoid going against the grain of color. Going against it will give you a muddy and dirty look in the middle of the gradient. Instead, add another point in between to bypass this gray area.
Be careful when using more than two colors
Another tip we have for you is to be very careful if you are using more than two colors for your gradient. Too many colors on a small surface can easily become messy. If you are using three or more stops, try to use colors that are closer on the color wheel.
Use the right kind of gradient
The third tip on how to create beautiful gradients is to use the right kind of gradient. Why? Because every gradient has a different feel.
Vertical gradients feel classic and old school
Horizontal gradients look dynamic and inviting
Diagonal gradients look organic and natural
Position your gradients cleverly
It’s important that you always span the gradient from end to end of the surface, if not even more, to achieve a more professional look.
Don’t use overly saturated colors
To create beautiful gradients, you need to avoid using overly saturated colors. Overly saturated colors look aggressive and amateurish. Less saturated gradients give a more relaxed and intentional feel.
Spice it up
The last tip on how to create beautiful gradients is to spice them up. You can spice them up by:
Adding noise: you can apply an additional layer of grain over your gradients to create a more vintage look.
Using mesh gradients: mesh gradients are a mesh in which every point has a specific color, and the mesh interpolates the colors from one point to the surrounding ones.
If making your own mesh gradient sounds like a chore, install the Mesh Gradient plugin.
Conclusion
Mastering how to create beautiful gradients involves choosing harmonious colors, the right gradient types, and strategic positioning. By following these tips, you’ll craft gradients that are elegant, professional, and visually impactful. Start practicing today and transform your designs with the power of stunning gradients.
Avoid going against the grain of color
The first tip on how to create beautiful gradients is to avoid going against the grain of color. Going against it will give you a muddy and dirty look in the middle of the gradient. Instead, add another point in between to bypass this gray area.
Be careful when using more than two colors
Another tip we have for you is to be very careful if you are using more than two colors for your gradient. Too many colors on a small surface can easily become messy. If you are using three or more stops, try to use colors that are closer on the color wheel.
Use the right kind of gradient
The third tip on how to create beautiful gradients is to use the right kind of gradient. Why? Because every gradient has a different feel.
Vertical gradients feel classic and old school
Horizontal gradients look dynamic and inviting
Diagonal gradients look organic and natural
Position your gradients cleverly
It’s important that you always span the gradient from end to end of the surface, if not even more, to achieve a more professional look.
Don’t use overly saturated colors
To create beautiful gradients, you need to avoid using overly saturated colors. Overly saturated colors look aggressive and amateurish. Less saturated gradients give a more relaxed and intentional feel.
Spice it up
The last tip on how to create beautiful gradients is to spice them up. You can spice them up by:
Adding noise: you can apply an additional layer of grain over your gradients to create a more vintage look.
Using mesh gradients: mesh gradients are a mesh in which every point has a specific color, and the mesh interpolates the colors from one point to the surrounding ones.
If making your own mesh gradient sounds like a chore, install the Mesh Gradient plugin.
Conclusion
Mastering how to create beautiful gradients involves choosing harmonious colors, the right gradient types, and strategic positioning. By following these tips, you’ll craft gradients that are elegant, professional, and visually impactful. Start practicing today and transform your designs with the power of stunning gradients.
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
