How to Add Gradient Text in Illustrator

Adding gradients to text in Adobe Illustrator can be a bit tricky, especially when trying to keep the text editable. Follow these steps to add a gradient to your text:

Double-click the text or go to the Appearance panel to change the fill color of the text.
If gradients don't seem to work for text characters, go to the Appearance panel and double click on 'Characters' to access the fill and stroke options.
Remove the fill and stroke from the text characters to make them editable.
Double-click back on the text in the Appearance panel to add a new fill and then apply a gradient to it using the Gradient tool.
Adjust the gradient angle, colors, stops, and properties as desired to customize the gradient on the text.
The gradient will scale with the text, even if the text is moved or resized.

Keyword

Adobe Illustrator, Text Gradient, Appearance Panel, Characters, Fill, Stroke, Gradient Tool, Linear Gradient, Radial Gradient, Editable Text

FAQ

Can I add gradients to editable text in Illustrator? Yes, you can add gradients to editable text in Illustrator by managing the fill options in the Appearance panel and applying gradients to the text using the Gradient tool.
Can I use the Freeform Gradient tool on text in Illustrator? The Freeform Gradient tool cannot be used on text directly in Illustrator. It is limited to single shapes, so you can only apply linear or radial gradients to text.
Will gradients scale with the text when it is resized or moved? Yes, gradients applied to text in Illustrator will scale with the text, making it easy to manipulate the text while retaining the gradient effect.
How do I make gradient text in Illustrator if the Freeform Gradient tool doesn't work on text? If the Freeform Gradient tool doesn't work on text, you can use Linear or Radial gradients on text while keeping it editable or create outlines of the text to treat it as shapes and use gradients on it.