Colors play a crucial role in graphic design. Designers often want to quickly adjust the colors of their work to create different moods or brand identities. With Adobe Illustrator, you have effective tools at your disposal that allow you to do just that. In this guide, you will learn how to change the colors of your graphics in a flash with just a few clicks. Let’s get started and explore this useful feature!
Main Insights
- The "Recolor Artwork" tool allows you to quickly adjust colors in your graphic.
- A handy overview of all used colors makes changing colors easy and efficient.
- The color sliders provide you with many options for adjustments without the need to manually select each color.
Step-by-Step Guide
First, open your desired project in Adobe Illustrator. In this example, we will use a gift wrap design that was created in a previous video. Since we are working with an existing design, select the graphic you want to recolor.

Here, you can see a button labeled "Recolor Artwork" in the top menu bar. This is the tool that will help you efficiently change the colors of your graphic.

Clicking this button opens a new window. This window is particularly useful as it lists all the colors used in the current document. This way, you have everything at a glance and can immediately start adjusting.

From this list, select the color you want to change. For example, this could be the green background of your gift wrap. Simply click on the desired color block.
Now, you have the option to choose the new color using the color sliders on the right side of the window. This is quick and easy, and you don't have to painstakingly edit each shade manually.

Once you have set the desired color, you can immediately see the result in the graphic. This efficiency allows you to test various color combinations until you find the perfect choice for your design.
If you prefer a different color, you can simply repeat the steps. You have control over the entire color palette and can make changes in real time. This greatly simplifies the creative process and saves you a lot of time.

Before closing the window, make sure you are satisfied with the changes. It’s a good idea to preview your changes to ensure that everything looks harmonious.
In this last video, we wanted to show you a small but powerful trick to enhance your Illustrator skills. It’s always a pleasure to hear feedback, and we hope that you were able to truly benefit from the fundamentals we've shared with you.
Summary – Quickly and Easily Recolor Graphics in Adobe Illustrator
In summary, this tutorial shows you how to quickly and effectively change colors in graphics using Adobe Illustrator's "Recolor Artwork" tool. You’ll learn how to adjust your designs with a clear color palette and simple sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I select the graphic I want to recolor?Simply click on the graphic or object frame to select it.
What happens to the original colors when I change them?The original colors are replaced by the new colors, but you can always go back and adjust or undo the changes.
Can I change multiple colors at once?Yes, by selecting multiple color blocks in the list and using the corresponding sliders.
Is there a way to undo my color changes?Yes, you can undo the changes or adjust the process as long as the window remains open.