Apply a gradient fill

The Gradient tool creates a gradual blend between multiple colors. You can choose from preset gradient fills or create your own.

Note: The Gradient tool cannot be used with bitmap or indexed-color images.

You fill an area with a gradient by dragging in the image. The starting point (where the mouse is pressed) and ending point (where the mouse is released) affect the gradient appearance, depending on the Gradient tool used.

To fill part of the image, select the desired area. Otherwise, the gradient fill is applied to the entire active layer.
Select the Gradient tool .
Choose a gradient fill in the options bar:
- Click the triangle next to the gradient sample to pick a preset gradient fill.
- Click inside the gradient sample to view the Gradient Editor. Select a preset gradient fill, or create a new gradient fill. Then click OK. (See Create a smooth gradient.)
Select an option for applying the gradient fill in the options bar:
Linear gradient

Shades from the starting point to the ending point in a straight line.
Radial gradient

Shades from the starting point to the ending point in a circular pattern.
Angle gradient

Shades in a counterclockwise sweep around the starting point.
Reflected gradient

Shades using symmetric linear gradients on either side of the starting point.
Diamond gradient

Shades from the starting point outward in a diamond pattern. The ending point defines one corner of the diamond.
Do the following in the options bar:
- Specify a blending mode and opacity for the paint. (See List of blending modes.)
- To reverse the order of colors in the gradient fill, select Reverse.
- To create a smoother blend with less banding, select Dither.
- To use a transparency mask for the gradient fill, select Transparency. (See Specify the gradient transparency.)
Position the pointer in the image where you want to set the starting point of the gradient, and drag to define the ending point. To constrain the line angle to a multiple of 45°, hold down Shift as you drag.