Template Issues

How to Recreate a Gradient Page Color in OneNote

Anum Mushtaq Oct 15, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to recreate a specific gradient page color that is darker in the upper-left corner and lighter toward the center in OneNote.

How to Recreate a Gradient Page Color in OneNote

Product: Microsoft OneNote 2016
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Trying to apply a subtle gradient background to a page, which is not available in the standard page color settings.
Observed behavior: Standard page colors and decorations in OneNote do not offer this specific gradient effect, leading the user to search for the correct template or add-in.

Before you start

Ensure you have the necessary third-party add-ins installed, as standard OneNote settings do not natively include built-in gradient page colors.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Templates from the OneNote Gem Add-in

Apply a custom gradient page template by utilizing the OneNote Gem add-in, which offers extended formatting options.

Microsoft OneNote natively supports only solid background colors. Subtle gradient appearances are typically provided by third-party extensions. The OneNote Gem add-in includes a set of canned templates that can instantly apply this specific gradient effect to your pages.

Install OneNote Gem

Download and install the OneNote Gem add-in that matches your specific version of OneNote (e.g., OneNote 2016).

Open the Add-in Templates

Launch OneNote and navigate to the newly added Gem tab on your ribbon interface.

Select the Gradient Template

Browse the available page templates provided by the add-in and select the canned template featuring the darker upper-left gradient design.

Use Templates from the OneNote Gem Add-in

Color Limitations: The OneNote Gem add-in may offer only a limited selection of pre-set gradient colors, but it typically covers standard organizational needs.

Solution 2

Check Default Page Template Settings

Verify if the gradient effect is coming from an existing page template set as the default for new pages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create a custom gradient background natively in OneNote without add-ins?

No, OneNote natively only supports solid background colors and standard rule or grid lines. To get gradient backgrounds, you must use custom page templates created outside of OneNote or third-party add-ins like OneNote Gem.

How do I change the standard solid page color in OneNote?

To change the standard page color, go to the 'View' tab on the ribbon, click 'Page Color', and select your preferred solid color from the drop-down palette.

Why do new pages in my OneNote section automatically have a gradient background?

This happens when a custom template with a gradient background has been set as the default template for that specific section. You can change or remove this in the Page Templates pane under the Insert tab.

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