To use the Gradient Tool in Affinity Publisher, you select the tool, specify whether you want the gradient applied to the object's fill or stroke, choose the type of gradient, and then drag across the object to define the gradient's direction and length.
Applying a gradient allows you to create smooth transitions between colors within an object, adding depth and visual interest to your designs. Here's a breakdown of the process based on the standard workflow:
Steps to Apply a Gradient
The process involves selecting the tool and making key choices in the context toolbar before drawing the gradient on your object. Follow these steps:
- Select the Gradient Tool: First, locate and select the Gradient Tool from the Tools panel on the left side of the Affinity Publisher interface.
- Choose Target (Stroke or Fill): Look at the context toolbar that appears at the top of the screen when the Gradient Tool is active. From the Context pop-up menu within this toolbar, select either 'Stroke' or 'Fill'.
- Selecting Fill will apply the gradient to the inner area of your selected object.
- Selecting Stroke will apply the gradient along the outline or border of your object.
- Select Gradient Type: Still in the context toolbar, find the Type pop-up menu. Click on it and select a fill type. Common types include Linear (color changes along a straight line), Radial (color radiates from a central point), Conical, Elliptical, and Bitmap.
- Drag to Apply Gradient: With your object selected and the tool configured, drag the cursor across the object. The direction and length of your drag will determine how the gradient is applied.
- If you selected Fill, dragging inside the object defines the gradient's start and end points within the fill area.
- If you selected Stroke, dragging across the object defines how the gradient is applied along the path of the stroke.
Once you drag, a line with nodes will appear on the object, representing the gradient. You can then use the context toolbar and the gradient handles/nodes directly on the object to adjust colors, add stops, and fine-tune the gradient's appearance.
This straightforward process allows you to quickly add dynamic color transitions to text frames, shapes, image frames, and other objects in your Publisher documents.
