How to Use Radial Gradient in Figma: Step-by-Step Guide

To use a radial gradient in Figma, select a shape, open the Fill section in the right panel, change the fill type to Radial, and then adjust the gradient stops and circle handles to customize the colors and spread. This creates a smooth color transition radiating from the center outward.

Syntax

In Figma, a radial gradient fill is defined by multiple color stops arranged in a circular pattern. You control the gradient by setting:

• Fill type: Set to Radial in the Fill dropdown.
• Color stops: Points where colors change along the gradient.
• Handles: Circles on the shape to adjust the gradient's center, radius, and shape.

figma

Fill type: Radial
Color stops: Multiple colors with positions
Handles: Center point and radius control

Example

This example shows how to apply a radial gradient with blue in the center fading to white at the edges on a circle shape.

text

1. Draw a circle shape.
2. Select the circle.
3. In the right panel, under Fill, click the color box.
4. Change the fill type from Solid to Radial.
5. Set the first color stop to blue (#0000FF) at position 0%.
6. Set the second color stop to white (#FFFFFF) at position 100%.
7. Drag the center handle to adjust the gradient's center if needed.
8. Drag the outer handle to change the radius of the gradient.

Output

A circle filled with a smooth radial gradient from blue in the center to white at the edges.

Common Pitfalls

• Forgetting to change the fill type to Radial keeps the fill solid or linear.
• Not adding multiple color stops results in a single color or abrupt transitions.
• Ignoring the gradient handles can cause unexpected gradient placement.
• Using very similar colors for stops makes the gradient hard to see.

text

Wrong:
Fill type: Solid
Color: Blue

Right:
Fill type: Radial
Color stops: Blue at 0%, White at 100%

Quick Reference

Action	Description
Select shape	Choose the object to apply the gradient.
Open Fill panel	Click the fill color box in the right sidebar.
Change fill type	Select 'Radial' from the fill type dropdown.
Add color stops	Click on the gradient bar to add or adjust colors.
Adjust handles	Drag center and radius handles to position gradient.

Key Takeaways

Always set the fill type to Radial to create a radial gradient in Figma.

Use multiple color stops to create smooth color transitions from center outward.

Adjust the gradient handles to control the center and spread of the gradient.

Avoid using very similar colors for stops to keep the gradient visible.

Check the fill panel carefully to ensure the gradient is applied correctly.