CSS Gradient Generator
Create stunning gradient backgrounds with real-time preview and professional presets
Controls
Adjust the settings to customize your CSS
Gradient Layers
Color Stops
Live Preview
See your changes in real-time
Presets
Choose from pre-designed effects or start with a template
Generated Code
Copy the CSS or Tailwind classes to use in your project
background: linear-gradient(to right, #667eea 0%, #764ba2 100%);What is CSS Gradient?
CSS gradients allow you to display smooth transitions between multiple colors. They are defined as CSS images and can be used anywhere an image would be used, most commonly as background images.
Essential for creating modern backgrounds, button effects, and visual elements that enhance user interface design without additional HTTP requests.
CSS Gradient Syntax
background: linear-gradient(direction, color1, color2, ...);
/* Example */
background: linear-gradient(45deg, #3b82f6, #ef4444);
Linear Gradients
Angle or keyword (to right)
Colors and positions
Radial Gradients
Circle or ellipse
Center point location
Conic Gradients
Starting rotation angle
Rotation center point
Popular Use Cases
Hero Backgrounds
Create stunning hero sections with engaging gradient backgrounds
Button Effects
Add depth and visual interest to interactive UI elements
Text Effects
Create colorful text with gradient clipping techniques
Card Overlays
Enhance images with subtle transparent gradient overlays
Advanced Techniques
1 Multiple Gradient Layers
Layer multiple gradients to create rich, complex color combinations:
background:
linear-gradient(45deg, transparent 30%, rgba(255,255,255,0.2) 50%, transparent 70%), /* Light overlay */
linear-gradient(135deg, #667eea 0%, #764ba2 100%); /* Base gradient */ 2 Radial Gradient Positioning
Control the center point and shape of radial gradients for dynamic effects:
background: radial-gradient(ellipse at top left, #667eea 0%, #764ba2 50%, #f093fb 100%);
/* Position variations */
/* at center, at top right, at bottom center, etc. */ Best Practices
Do This
- Use 2-4 colors for smooth, natural transitions
- Test gradients on different screen sizes and devices
- Ensure sufficient contrast for text readability
- Use CSS custom properties for easy theme switching
Avoid This
- Using too many colors that create muddy transitions
- Applying gradients to frequently animated elements
- Ignoring accessibility and color vision differences
- Creating gradients that clash with your brand colors
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Frequently Asked Questions
? How many colors can I use in a gradient?
There's no practical limit, but 2-4 colors usually create the smoothest, most natural-looking transitions. Too many colors can result in muddy or harsh transitions.
? Can I animate CSS gradients?
Yes! You can animate gradient positions using background-position, or create moving gradients by animating the gradient's background-size and position properties.
? What's the difference between radial and conic gradients?
Radial gradients transition colors outward from a center point in concentric circles or ellipses, while conic gradients rotate colors around a center point like a color wheel.
? Are CSS gradients accessible?
When used thoughtfully, yes. Ensure sufficient contrast between text and gradient backgrounds, test with accessibility tools, and consider users with color vision differences when choosing color combinations.