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How Do I Change One Color in Paint?

Published in Image Editing 2 mins read

Changing a single color in Microsoft Paint requires a straightforward approach using the color picker and paint bucket tools. There isn't a "select all of one color" function like in more advanced image editors.

Replacing a Single Color in MS Paint

To replace a specific color within your image:

  1. Select the Eyedropper Tool: Locate and click the eyedropper-shaped icon within the Paint interface's "Tools" section. (This is mentioned in the provided reference from August 31st, 2024).
  2. Select the Target Color: Click the color you wish to replace within your image. This color will now be assigned as your "Color 1". Use the zoom function (+) in the bottom right for better precision. (Referenced in August 31st, 2024 source).
  3. Choose the Replacement Color: Select your desired replacement color from the color palette.
  4. Use the Paint Bucket Tool: Click the paint bucket tool and carefully fill the area where the original color exists. Be mindful of not accidentally coloring other parts of your image.

Replacing an Entire Color (Workaround)

MS Paint lacks a global color replacement feature. To achieve a similar effect for large areas of a single color:

  1. Select All (Ctrl+A): Select the entire image.
  2. Cut (Ctrl+X): Cut the selection.
  3. Choose New Color: Select your desired replacement color.
  4. Fill with Paint Bucket: Use the paint bucket tool to fill the entire canvas with the new color.
  5. Paste (Ctrl+V): Paste the original selection back onto the newly colored canvas. The previously targeted color will now be replaced throughout the image. (This method is described in a Nerd Paradise reference).

Note: This workaround method requires careful consideration as it replaces the entire canvas background with the chosen color before pasting your original work back on top. It is crucial to save your image before applying this step in case of errors.

Addressing Ambiguity

Some references mention tools like "recolor" that are not standard features of MS Paint. This answer focuses solely on techniques available within the basic functionalities of MS Paint.

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