Apply predefined gradients

Last updated on Sep 11, 2025

Learn how to apply a predefined gradient in Adobe Illustrator to add color transitions to your artwork.

Illustrator provides a predefined set of gradients that you can set using the Gradient panel or the Swatches panel. You can also create and save custom gradients in the Swatches panel for future use.

  • If you use the Gradient tool for the first time, a default white-to-black gradient is applied.
  • If you've used a gradient before, the last used gradient is applied instead.

Apply a predefined or a saved gradient from the Gradient panel

Select Window > Gradient.

Select the artwork on the canvas.

Select a gradient from the Gradient drop-down in the Gradient panel.

Apply a predefined gradient from the swatch library

Select Window > Swatches to open the Swatches panel.

In the Swatches panel, select Swatch Library menu Gradients and then select the gradient you want to apply.

Tip

You can also access the predefined gradients by selecting the Swatches panel menu and then selecting Open Swatch Library > Gradients.

The Swatches panel menu under the Open Swatch Library menu displays several gradient options ready for selection.
Select a predefined gradient from the Gradient menu in the Open Swatch Library.

Select Show Swatch Kinds menu > Show Gradient Swatches to display only gradients in the Swatches panel.

Apply gradients using existing fill

When you apply a gradient to an object filled with a solid color, Illustrator uses that color as the starting point for the gradient. This helps you maintain visual consistency while designing and eliminates the need to reselect the base color manually. 

Select a shape that has a solid fill color, and then navigate to the Gradient panel.

The Gradient Slider will automatically start with your shape’s fill color. Adjust the gradient as needed using the swatches.

Note

If no fill is applied, Illustrator uses the default gradient. If multiple shapes with different colors are selected, the last used gradient is shown.