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Shapes are great for highlighting key points in your slides. But default shapes can look plain. Learning how to change shape colors in Google Slides can make your slides more eye-catching. This guide shows simple steps, useful tips, and answers common questions, so you can quickly style shapes in your presentations.

Follow these steps to change the fill color of a shape:

Step 1: Open your Google Slides presentation and click the shape you want to change. A blue border will show it’s selected.

Step 2: Click the Fill Color (paint bucket) icon in the toolbar. From the dropdown menu, select your preferred color to complete the shape’s color modification.

    • Theme Colors: Matches the overall color scheme of your presentation.
    • Solid Colors: Choose from preset colors.
    • Custom Colors: Pick any color or enter a hex code.
    • Gradient Fill: Apply a smooth color transition.

choose the fill color change icon

Pro Tip: To remove the border, choose transparent.

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How to Change Shape Border Color in Google Slides

Borders help shapes stand out more effectively. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Select the shape and ensure it is in an editable state.

Step 2: Click the border color icon (pencil icon) in the toolbar.

change the shape border

Step 3: Choose a border color: theme color, custom color, or transparent.

Step 4: Further adjust border style:

  • Border weight: change line thickness.
  • Border style: switch to dashed or dotted lines.

Quick tip: To remove the border, choose transparent.

Practical Tips for Changing Shape Color in Google Slides

1. Prioritize theme colors: Maintain visual consistency throughout.

2. Modify multiple shapes at once: Hold Shift to select multiple shapes
simultaneously, then adjust their colors together.

3. Use the Format Painter: Quickly copy a shape’s style using the Format Painter and apply it to other shapes.

4. Ensure color contrast: Use dark text on light backgrounds and light text on dark backgrounds to guarantee clear readability.

FAQs About How to Change Shape Color in Google Slides

Q: Why can't I change the shape color?

A: The shape might be grouped or locked. Ungroup it first before making changes.

Q: How do I remove the shape border?

A: Select the shape → Border color → Choose Transparent.

Q: Can I fill a shape with an image?

A: Yes. Right-click the shape → Replace Picture → Select your desired image.

Q: Can I set a gradient border for shapes?

A: Currently, Google Slides does not support gradient borders. Only solid colors are available.

💬 Conclusion:

Mastering how to change the color of shapes in Google Slides is easy and can make your slides look much better. By flexibly adjusting fill and outline colors, you can quickly unify the style of your slides, making content clearer and more aesthetically pleasing. Next time you add a shape, pick a color that fits, it will make your presentation stand out.