Modify fill and stroke for shapes

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to customize shape layers by adjusting their Fill and Stroke settings using solid colors, gradients, or patterns in Adobe Photoshop.

Select any tool from the shapes tool group in the Tools panel.

Hold and drag anywhere on the canvas to draw the shape.

Select Fill or Stroke from the Contextual Task Bar (Window > Contextual Task Bar) to adjust the fill or stroke color:

  • Solid Color: Applies a uniform color fill or stroke to the shape layer using the current foreground color.
  • Gradient: Applies a gradient to the shape layer upon selecting a gradient preset from the given options.
  • Pattern: Applies a pattern upon selecting a pattern preset from the given options.

Adjust the stroke thickness and Stroke Options from the Contextual Task Bar.

Note

You can also select Fill or Stroke options from the Options bar or the Properties panel.

The Rectangle tool is highlighted in the Tools panel, and a rectangle is drawn on the canvas. The Contextual Task Bar is present, showing the Fill dropdown menu.
Add solid colors, gradients, or patterns to your shapes using the Fill or Stroke options in the Contextual Task Bar.