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How Do You Make a Gradient Mask in XD?

Published in Gradient Fade Effect 2 mins read

Adobe XD doesn't directly support gradient masks in the same way some other design programs do. However, you can achieve a similar effect using a simple workaround.

Creating a Gradient Fade Effect

To simulate a gradient mask, place a rectangle over your image. Then, apply a linear gradient to this rectangle, adjusting the colors to transition from opaque to transparent. This creates a fading effect on the image underneath. The key is to use a gradient that transitions from a fully opaque color to a fully transparent color (no color).

Steps:

  1. Import your image: Bring your image into your XD document.
  2. Add a rectangle: Create a rectangle on top of the image, precisely covering the area you want to affect.
  3. Apply a gradient: Select the rectangle and, in the Property Inspector, click Fill. Choose Linear Gradient from the dropdown menu.
  4. Set the gradient colors: Adjust the gradient stops. One color should be opaque (e.g., white), and the other should be fully transparent (no color). Adjust the position of the gradient stops to control the fade. You can also experiment with different gradient angles.
  5. Group the elements (optional): Group the rectangle and the image together for easier manipulation.

Example: To fade an image from the top to bottom, use a vertical linear gradient with white at the top and fully transparent at the bottom.

This method effectively creates a gradient fade that mimics the functionality of a gradient mask.

Remember, as stated in the provided Reddit thread (https://www.reddit.com/r/Adobe_XD/comments/uodfya/image_mask_that_fades_image_to_transparent/), "There's no gradient mask functionality per se." The workaround described above provides the desired visual effect. The Adobe XD help page (https://helpx.adobe.com/content/help/in/en/xd/help/gradients.html) describes how to create gradients, a crucial component of this workaround.

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