How to Change the Background Color on Instagram Story
Instagram Stories has become a powerful tool for individuals and businesses alike to engage with their audience. One of the ways to make your Stories stand out is by changing the background color.
By Crystal Updated on August 5, 2025
Bright or uniform background colors can enhance visual appeal, strengthen brand image, and attract attention in crowded dynamics.
Through this article, you will learn how to change the background color on Instagram Stories, unlocking creative flexibility—perfect for brand promotion, product marketing, and showcasing your personality.
How to Change Instagram Stories Background Color [Built - in Tools]
Here's the detailed guide structured exactly as requested, focusing solely on built-in Instagram tools for changing your Stories background to a Solid Color or Gradient Background.
Way 1. Changing Background to a Solid Color
1. Launch the Instagram, then tap on the “Your Story” option. (You can also swipe right from the home screen to access the camera for creating a Story.)
2. You can either take a new photo or video using the Instagram camera or choose an existing one from your gallery. For the purpose of changing the background color, the content of this initial image doesn't matter much as we'll be covering it up.
3. After selecting or capturing the media, tap on the three - dot menu (…) at the top - right corner of the screen. From the options that appear, select “Draw”.
4. At the bottom of the screen, you'll see a color palette. You can choose from the default colors presented. If you don't find the color you want, you can long - press on any of the colors in the palette. This will bring up a rainbow - colored slider where you can select a custom color.
5. Once you've selected the color, touch and hold anywhere on the photo or video. The entire Story area will be filled with the chosen color. You can release your finger once the background is fully colored.
6. Tap on the checkmark in the top - right corner to exit the drawing mode. Your Story now has a solid - colored background, and you can start adding text, stickers, or other elements.
Way 2. Creating a Gradient Background
1. Open Instagram, access the Story camera, and take or select an image.
2. Instead of going straight to the “Draw” option, tap on the “Aa” button at the top of the screen. This will bring up more advanced editing options.
3. Look for the circle icon with a gradient fill on the top - right corner of the screen. Tap on it.
4. A color palette will appear. You can select two colors to create a gradient. The gradient will be applied diagonally across the Story background. You can experiment with different color combinations to achieve the desired look.
5. After setting the gradient background, you can add text, stickers, and other elements to your Story. Once you're satisfied, tap on the “Your Story” button to share it.
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FAQ
Q1: Can I Change the Background Color Without Uploading an Image First?
Yes. When you open the Instagram Story camera, you can immediately access the drawing tools. Instead of taking or selecting an image first, tap on the three - dot menu (…) and then “Draw”. Proceed to choose a color and fill the background as described in the solid - color method. This way, you start with a blank, colored canvas for your Story.
Q2: Why don’t I see the gradient option?
Ensure your app is updated. Gradients are available in “Create” mode under the color slider.
Q3: How do I save a favorite background color?
Hold a selected color to add it to your “Recently Used” palette for quick access.
Q4: Can I change the background after adding text/media?
Yes. Tap the draw tool, select a color, and hold the screen to overlay the existing content.
Q5: Can I Change the Background Color of an Existing Story?
No, once a Story has been posted, you cannot change its background color directly within the Instagram app. However, if you saved the Story to your device before posting, you can re-upload it to the Story editor, change the background color, and repost it. But keep in mind that if the Story had any interactions like views or replies, those will be lost when you repost.
Tips for Changing Background Color on Instagram Stories
✔ Contrast Matters: Pair light backgrounds with dark text (or vice versa) for readability.
✔ Brand Consistency: Stick to your brand’s color scheme for recognition.
✔ Experiment: Mix gradients, textures, and media for eye-catching designs.
Conclusion
By now, you've got the lowdown on how to change the background color of your Instagram Stories. Whether you're aiming to catch the eye of your followers, infuse your brand's identity, or just add a dash of creativity, these techniques are at your disposal.
So, don't hesitate to experiment with solid colors, gradients, and different color palettes.
