Using the Gradient palette

The Gradient palette lets you select the starting and ending colors. You can adjust the relative distance from the edges of the object to where the starting color begins blending into the ending color. You can also specify if the gradient rotates with the object, using the Relative option. To switch between the relative and nonrelative settings, you must turn on the Shape Transform option in the Object menu.


Gradient palette A. Starting color stop B. Blending occurs between starting and ending color stops C. Ending color stop D. Resulting gradient

To create and edit a gradient:

1. Select the background, or an object and layer.
2. Choose Window > Gradient.
3. Select the kind of gradient you want.
4. Click the left color stop under the gradient bar to define the starting color of the gradient. (This color is the object color by default.) The square below the stop is outlined, indicating that the starting color is being edited.
5. Change the color by doing one of the following:
• Use the eyedropper tool to sample and apply a color.
• Use the Color palette to specify a color.
6. Define the ending color. Click the right color stop under the gradient bar. (This color is black by default.) Then choose a color as described in step 5.
7. Drag the corresponding color stop left or right to adjust the location of the gradient starting point or ending point.
8. Choose Object > Transform > Shape Transform. Select Relative to rotate the gradient when you rotate the object.
9. Enter a value between 0° and 359° to specify the angle at which to apply the gradient. A preview of the gradient is displayed in the gradient angle indicator.