How to Apply Fountain Fill in CorelDRAW

A fountain fill, commonly known as a gradient fill, creates a smooth transition between two or more colors across an object. This guide explains how to apply and customize fountain fills in CorelDRAW using both the Interactive Fill tool for quick adjustments and the Fountain Fill dialog for precise, advanced control over your designs.

Method 1: Using the Interactive Fill Tool (Fastest)

The Interactive Fill tool allows you to apply and manipulate gradients directly on the canvas.

  1. Select the Object: Use the Pick tool to select the vector object or closed path you want to fill.
  2. Activate the Tool: Click the Interactive Fill tool in the toolbox on the left side of the screen, or press the shortcut key G.
  3. Apply the Fill: Click on the Fountain fill icon in the property bar at the top of the screen, or simply click and drag across your selected object.
  4. Change Colors: Click on the color nodes (the small squares at either end of the gradient line) and select a new color from the pop-up palette, or drag and drop colors directly from your color palette onto the nodes.
  5. Adjust the Transition: Drag the slider (midpoint bar) located between the color nodes to change the balance between the colors. Drag the end nodes to change the angle and spread of the gradient.

Method 2: Using the Fountain Fill Dialog (Advanced)

For precise numerical settings, multi-color blends, and advanced options, use the Properties docker or dialog.

  1. Select the Object: Click the object you wish to edit.
  2. Open the Dialog: Press F11 on your keyboard, or double-click the Fill swatch located in the bottom-right corner of the Status bar.
  3. Choose the Fountain Fill Type: Click the Fountain Fill icon at the top of the dialog. CorelDRAW provides four gradient styles:
    • Linear: Blends colors in a straight line.
    • Elliptical: Blends colors outward in concentric circles or ovals.
    • Conical: Blends colors around an edge in a cone shape.
    • Rectangular: Blends colors outward in concentric rectangles.
  4. Customize the Gradient:
    • Add Additional Colors: Double-click anywhere along the gradient blend bar to add extra color nodes.
    • Remove Colors: Double-click an existing node to delete it.
    • Rotate or Shift: Enter specific numerical values for angle, horizontal offset, and vertical offset to position the fill accurately.
    • Repeat and Mirror: Toggle repeat or mirror settings to tile the gradient across large shapes.
  5. Apply the Settings: Click OK to apply the customized fill to your selected artwork.