Instagram, General Motors, and Tinder…what do the brands share? A colorful gradient logo design! If you’re trying to create an identity which stands out in the sea of plain rivals, a gradient may be the best option.
Gradients are making a comeback as an trend in graphic design in the past year. With increasingly increasing companies using bright gradient logos that resonate with their target audience and create an impact.
However, when is a gradient logo suitable? And what color combos create a great gradient? We’ll go over everything from what a gradient actually is to how you can make your own. With colorful gradient logo examples as we go!
Is there a difference between a gradient and a gradation?
Gradients (also known as color ramps and color progressions) are an elongated blend of colors or shades. They can be a mixture of similar colors that are the same shade, or mixing a broad range of colors. You may also apply an ombre effect that blends one color to transparency.
For a truly gradient effect for a real gradient effect, the colors must bleed into each other . they cannot be placed in a row. If you don’t have the gradual blend, you’ll only get a vibrant design. Here’s an example:
There are three types of gradients. linear, conic, and. Each one has its own unique method of mixing the colors together, but all have the same blended gradient.
When should you choose an image with a gradient
Do you want to distinguish yourself from your competition? A gradient might be the best way to get noticed.
Gradients are often used to provide logos with a 3D look that can cause a design to pop from the page. Check out the below designs the picture on right is an unflattened graphic as opposed to the one on the left, which is a gradient that has been applied.
But, we wouldn’t advise using a gradient logo only because you need to make a statement or simply because it’s fashionable. It should be a good fit for your branding and, even more important it should resonate with your intended people.
For instance, if seeking to create the logo to promote the small law practice with a gradient, a logo that has the gradient is likely to not go over well with clients who are used simple and traditional logos for law firms.
However when you’re creating the logo for your own online fitness and nutrition website You’ll have more freedom to play with different designs and colors.
Gradients are a great choice to use in logos if:
- It is likely to use the logo you choose to use for (mostly) online use. Gradients are usually difficult to print since they have multiple colors. If your business plans to market primarily through printed products like menus signs, business cards, or car decals, it is recommended to use the plain (non-gradient) logo.
- The company is in a artistic sector. If you’re a financial adviser or a minimalist furniture company it’s not your best option. If you’re in a more imaginative business, it may be a great match. Make sure that your logo reflect your branding personality and your target market.
- Your logo is comprised of monograms or symbols. Using a gradient on the company logo or slogan isn’t common as it’s crucial to ensure that the logo’s text is clear. In contrast, gradients are typically used to enhance an element like the logo’s symbol, as well as monogramelements in the logo. If you’re looking for an wordstamp (text-only) image that has a gradient, then a gradient likely isn’t the right choice for you.
- Your logo’s design is easy. If you want your logo to include the appearance of a frame, slogan, or any mentioned above, using gradients will make your design look too cluttered and difficult to comprehend. If your original logo is minimalist and simple and simple, a gradient might work.
Be aware when applying gradients. They can have a huge visual impact on the design It’s therefore crucial to apply them sparingly. With no limitations, your design may appear a lot more intense in a short time. We’ll provide some suggestions regarding this later on.