Skip to main content

How to change your design's background color

Learn how to apply solid colors or gradients to your background and why it's better than using shape layers for performance.

Updated over a week ago

Defining a background color is the first step in creating a consistent design. In Abyssale, we recommend using the native Format Background tool rather than adding a rectangle shape to the back of your design.

Using the built-in background feature keeps your layer list clean and ensures the fastest possible generation speeds for your automated visuals.


How to apply a color

  1. Deselect all layers: Click anywhere on the empty canvas outside of your design format to ensure no specific layer is selected.

  2. Locate the Background Settings: In the right-hand properties panel, you will see the Background section.

  3. Choose your style:

    • Monochrome: Select a single solid color using the color picker or by entering a Hex code.

    • Gradient: Choose two colors and select one of the three available gradient directions (Linear, Radial, etc.).

Pro Tip: Working with Transparency

If you need a transparent background for your exports:

  • Open the color picker.

  • Slide the opacity slider to the left to be transparent

Note: Your visuals will automatically be generated as .png files instead of .jpg to preserve transparency.


Why you should avoid "Shape Backgrounds"

It might be tempting to draw a large square and move it to the back to act as a background. However, every additional layer adds a "dimension" for the AI and our rendering algorithms to process.

By using the native background property instead of a shape:

  • You reduce the complexity of the design.

  • You ensure faster generation times across all formats.

  • You prevent alignment issues when resizing your design.

Did this answer your question?