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How do I change the icon color in Illustrator?

Published in Adobe Illustrator 3 mins read

There are several ways to change the icon color in Adobe Illustrator, depending on how the icon was created and what you're trying to achieve. One method involves using the Recolor Artwork feature.

Methods to Change Icon Color

Here's a breakdown of common approaches:

  • Using the Recolor Artwork Feature:

    1. Select the artwork (the icon). Make sure the entire icon is selected.
    2. Click the "Recolor Artwork" button. This button is usually found at the top control panel or in the Properties panel when artwork is selected. If you don't see it, go to Edit > Edit Colors > Recolor Artwork.
    3. Explore Color Options. The Recolor Artwork panel gives you options to change the colors. You can adjust individual colors or explore different color harmonies.

  • Direct Selection Tool and Fill/Stroke:

    1. Use the Direct Selection Tool (white arrow). This tool allows you to select individual paths or shapes within the icon.
    2. Select the specific path(s) or shape(s). Click on the element you want to change the color of.
    3. Adjust the Fill and/or Stroke. Use the Fill and Stroke color pickers in the Properties panel (or the Color panel or Control panel) to choose a new color.

  • Global Color Swatches:

    1. If the icon uses global color swatches, changing the swatch color will automatically update all instances of that color in your artwork. This is the most efficient way to make consistent color changes.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Outline or Embedded Images: If the "icon" is actually an outlined image, you may need to expand it (Object > Expand) before you can change individual colors.
  • Embedded Images: If the "icon" is a raster image (like a PNG or JPG) embedded in your Illustrator file, you'll need to use image editing software like Photoshop to change its colors. Alternatively, you can try using Image Trace in Illustrator to convert it to vector artwork.
  • Color Mode: Ensure your document is in the correct color mode (CMYK for print, RGB for web) before making color adjustments.
  • Experiment: The best way to learn is to experiment with different tools and techniques. Don't be afraid to try different options to see what works best for your specific icon.

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