Make a gradient (and make it not look like 2012)
Three ways to make a gradient in the Editor and when to use each, plus the three rules that separate a good gradient from a dated one: neighbouring colours, a long soft transition, and a little grain.
Beginner2 min readUpdated 27 September 2026Editor · Gradient tool, Gradient overlay, Gradient map
Which way
| Method | Where | Editable later? | Use for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gradient tool | G, drag on a layer | Repaint only | Backgrounds, fading a photo into a colour |
| Gradient overlay | Layer style: from, to, angle, scale | Yes, any time | Text, shapes, buttons, logos |
| Gradient map | Image, Adjustments: up to five stops, presets | Yes | Colouring photos, duotones, grades |
Gradient text
- Select the text layer. Choose Layer, Layer style, Gradient overlay….
- Set From and To, the Angle (90 is top to bottom), and Scale to stretch or compress the blend.
- The text stays editable; the gradient follows every change.
Three rules for gradients that look current
- Neighbours, not opposites. Colours opposite on the wheel blend through grey. If you must cross, add a middle colour: two gradient layers, A to B and B to C, meeting in the middle.
- Long and soft. Drag across the whole page, not a short band. Hard, short transitions look like a 2012 button.
- Grain. A slow gradient shows steps (banding), especially after JPG export. Filter, Enhance, Film Grain at Amount 5 to 10 hides them. See Add film grain.
Why is my gradient muddy in the middle?
The two colours are far apart on the colour wheel, so their mix is greyish. Pick closer colours, or add a bright middle colour with a second gradient.
Why does my gradient have stripes after export?
Too few tones across a long distance, made worse by JPG. Add a little Film Grain and export PNG.
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