# Creating a Gradient Swatch

You can add a color swatch to your palette that paints a zone with more than one color. The painted zone displays multiple colors that blend smoothly from one to another. This is called a gradient swatch.

You can create some spectacular effects using a gradient. For example, you can use a gradient swatch to create a setting Sun.

You can define up to eight different transition points within one swatch. You can then adjust where the transitions take place by dragging transition markers to the appropriate place. In the setting sun example, we used a Linear gradient (the colors change in a straight line), but you can also use a Radial gradient (the colors change in a circular motion).

To create a gradient:

1. Double-click a color swatch on the color palette tab. The color picker opens.

2. Select the type of gradient you want from the Direction panel. You have two choices:

- Radial: the colors blend in a circular pattern
- Linear: the color blend along a straight line

3. Define the transition color for each marker by clicking a marker and selecting a color from the Color panel. A small square appears on the selected marker.

When you choose a color for a transition marker, Toon Boom Studio adjusts the colors on either side of it based on the colors of the nearest transition markers.

4. Drag the transition markers to where you want the color to be completely changed.

5. To add more color transitions, click directly below the gradient bar. A transition marker appears (you can add a maximum of eight markers).

To remove a transition marker, drag it up until it disappears. The gradient colors re-adjust to the remaining transition markers. You must always have at least two transition markers.

See Also
Adding a Swatch
Painting Zones with Gradients and Bitmap Textures