How to Change Instagram Story Background Color (5 Easy Methods + Video 2025)

How to Change Instagram Story Background Color

Changing Instagram Story background colors lets you create custom-colored backdrops for your Stories without using photos. You can create solid color backgrounds, gradients, or branded templates using Instagram's built-in features (Create mode, brush tool) or external design tools like Canva.

Quick Answer: Change Story Background in 30 Seconds

1. Open Instagram Stories camera
2. Swipe to "Create" mode
3. Tap color palette at top
4. Choose your color
5. Add text or stickers

Or use the brush method for any color: Take a photo → Select brush tool → Hold screen to fill with color.

⏱️ Time to implement: 30 seconds - 2 minutes 💪 Difficulty: Easy (No design skills needed) 📱 Works on: Instagram app (iOS & Android)

30-Second Summary

What you'll learn:

• 4 methods to change Instagram Story backgrounds
• Design best practices for maximum impact
• Tools for creating branded templates
• How to optimize for engagement

What you'll be able to do:

• Create eye-catching Story backgrounds in seconds
• Build consistent branded Story templates
• Improve Story completion rates with better design
• Stand out in crowded Story feeds

Why Custom Backgrounds Matter

Brand Consistency

Custom backgrounds help maintain visual brand identity across all Story content. They create a cohesive aesthetic that audiences instantly recognize.

Consistent background colors, patterns, and designs make your Stories stand out in users' feeds. This improves brand recall and creates a professional appearance.

💡 Pro Tip: Use your brand colors in 80% of your Story backgrounds to build visual recognition.

Improved Engagement

Visually appealing custom backgrounds improve Story completion rates significantly. Well-designed backgrounds focus attention on your content and reduce visual clutter.

They create more polished, professional-looking Stories. This encourages viewers to watch until the end and interact with your content.

Content Versatility

Custom backgrounds enable you to create Stories without relying solely on photos or videos:

1. Text-based announcements and quotes
2. Product showcases with clean backdrops
3. Brand messaging and promotional content
4. Educational content with clear, readable layouts

Performance Benefits

✅ Higher Story completion rates with custom branded backgrounds
✅ Better text readability with optimized background colors
✅ Increased Story saves when using consistent brand backgrounds

5 Methods to Change Instagram Story Background Color (Step-by-Step)

Method 1: Instagram's Create Mode (Easiest)

1. Open Instagram Stories camera
2. Swipe left to access "Create" mode
3. Tap the color palette icon at the top
4. Select from preset colors or use the color picker
5. Add text, stickers, or other elements as desired

💡 Best For: Quick, simple solid color backgrounds for text-based content

Method 2: Brush Tool Technique (Most Flexible)

1. Take or select a photo for your Story
2. Use the brush tool with your desired color
3. Hold down on the screen to fill the entire background
4. Add your content (text, stickers, etc.) on top

💡 Best For: More color options than Create mode, custom color matching

⚠️ Watch Out: Make sure to hold firmly on the screen - a light tap won't fill the background.

Method 3: Drawing Tool Method (Creative)

1. Start with any photo or use Create mode
2. Select the pen or marker tool
3. Choose your desired background color
4. Hold and drag to cover the entire screen
5. Use the eraser tool to create patterns or effects if desired

💡 Best For: Creating textured backgrounds, patterns, or artistic effects

Method 4: Template-Based Backgrounds (Professional)

1. Create branded templates using design tools like Canva
2. Save templates to your phone's camera roll
3. Upload template as Story background
4. Add variable content (text, products, etc.) over template

💡 Best For: Professional branding, consistent visual identity, complex designs

Method 5: Instagram AI Backgrounds (NEW 2025 Feature)

1. Open Instagram Stories camera
2. Take or upload a photo
3. Tap the stickers icon
4. Select "AI Background" or "Background" sticker
5. Choose from AI-generated background options or remove background entirely
6. Instagram automatically creates professional backgrounds

💡 Best For: Product photos, professional content, removing busy backgrounds

⚠️ Note: This feature is rolling out gradually and may not be available to all accounts yet.

Try This Now

📱 Quick Test: Open Instagram Stories right now and try Method 1. Pick your brand color and add a simple text announcement. Takes 30 seconds!

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Change Background in 30 Seconds

Desktop/Web Version (Instagram.com)

Step 1: Go to instagram.com and log in Step 2: Click your profile picture or the "+" icon Step 3: Select "Story" Step 4: Click "Create" mode from the left sidebar Step 5: Choose a background color from the palette Step 6: Add text, stickers, or other content Step 7: Click "Share to Story"

⚠️ Watch Out: Desktop version has fewer color options than mobile app.

Mobile App Version (Most Popular Method)

Follow Method 1 or Method 2 above for the fastest results on mobile.

Method Comparison: Which One Should You Use?

💡 Recommendation: Start with Create Mode for beginners, graduate to Brush Tool for brand consistency.

10 Ready-to-Use Brand Color Combinations

Copy these hex codes for instant branded backgrounds:

Professional Business:

• Navy + White: #1E3A8A + #FFFFFF
• Charcoal + Cream: #2D2D2D + #F5F5DC

Creative & Bold:

• Coral + Mint: #FF6B6B + #4ECDC4
• Purple + Gold: #9B59B6 + #F39C12

Wellness & Natural:

• Sage Green + Beige: #A8DADC + #F1FAEE
• Terracotta + Cream: #E76F51 + #FAF0E6

Tech & Modern:

• Electric Blue + Black: #00D9FF + #000000
• Neon Green + Dark Gray: #39FF14 + #1A1A1A

Feminine & Soft:

• Blush Pink + White: #FFB6C1 + #FFFFFF
• Lavender + Ivory: #E6E6FA + #FFFFF0

💡 How to use these: Copy the hex code, use Method 2 (Brush Tool), and select "Eyedropper" to match the exact color from a saved swatch.

Troubleshooting: Common Problems & Solutions

Problem: "Background Won't Fill Completely"

Solution: With the brush tool, you must press and hold on the screen for 2-3 seconds. A quick tap won't work.

Problem: "Can't Find Create Mode"

Solution:

1. Update Instagram to the latest version
2. Swipe LEFT from camera view (not right)
3. Look for "Create" text at the bottom

Problem: "My Color Looks Different After Posting"

Solution: Instagram compresses Stories. Use high-contrast colors and test before posting to avoid washed-out colors.

Problem: "Background Color Won't Save for Future Use"

Solution: Instagram doesn't save color presets. Instead:

1. Create a template in Canva with your brand colors
2. Save to phone camera roll
3. Upload as needed

Problem: "Text Isn't Readable on My Background"

Solution:

• Use white text on dark backgrounds (or vice versa)
• Add text shadow in Instagram's text tool
• Use semi-transparent backgrounds behind text

Problem: "Create Mode Missing on My Account"

Solution: This usually means:

• Your app needs updating (check App Store/Google Play)
• Feature not rolled out to your region yet
• Try Method 2 (Brush Tool) as alternative

Design Best Practices That Work

Color Psychology and Brand Alignment

Brand Color Integration: Use your primary brand colors consistently across Story backgrounds. This reinforces brand identity and creates instant recognition.

Emotional Impact: Choose colors strategically:

• 🔵 Blue: Trust, professionalism, calm
• 🔴 Red: Energy, urgency, passion
• 🟢 Green: Growth, health, nature
• 🟣 Purple: Luxury, creativity, mystery
• 🟠 Orange: Enthusiasm, warmth, adventure

⚠️ Watch Out: Ensure sufficient contrast between background and text for readability.

Text Readability Optimization

The Golden Rule: High contrast is everything.

✅ Do This:

• Light text on dark backgrounds
• Dark text on light backgrounds
• Add subtle shadows or outlines to text
• Use bold, easily readable fonts

❌ Avoid This:

• Light text on light backgrounds
• Complex patterns behind text
• Tiny fonts that require squinting

💡 Pro Tip: Test your Story on different devices before posting - what looks good on your phone might be hard to read on others.

Visual Hierarchy That Guides Eyes

Create Focus: Use background colors to direct attention to your most important elements.

Add Depth: Gradient backgrounds and subtle patterns create visual interest without distraction.

Embrace White Space: Don't overcrowd backgrounds. Leave breathing room around key content.

Stay Consistent: Maintain similar background styles across Story series or campaigns.

Creative Background Ideas That Convert

Gradient Backgrounds (Trending in 2025)

Linear Gradients: Smooth color transitions from one color to another
Radial Gradients: Color transitions radiating from a central point
Multi-Color Gradients: Complex color blends for dynamic effects

💡 Pro Tip: Use third-party apps like Canva or Adobe Express for complex gradients that Instagram can't create natively.

Creation Guidelines: ✅ Keep gradients subtle for text readability
✅ Match gradient colors to your brand palette
✅ Test on different devices before publishing

Pattern and Texture Backgrounds

Geometric Patterns: Subtle shapes and lines that enhance without distracting

Textured Backgrounds: Paper textures, fabric patterns, or material effects that add sophistication

Brand Pattern Integration: Custom patterns incorporating your logo or brand elements

Seasonal Themes: Holiday patterns, seasonal colors, and event-specific designs

Try This Now: Photo-Based Custom Backgrounds

📸 Quick Action: Take a photo of your product, workspace, or brand environment right now. Here's how to turn it into a Story background:

1. Blurred Product Photos: Use your products as background with blur effect
2. Brand Environment: Office spaces, store locations, or brand-relevant scenes
3. Abstract Photography: Artistic photos that complement your brand aesthetic
4. User-Generated Content: Customer photos as backgrounds (with permission)

⚠️ Watch Out: Always blur busy photo backgrounds so text remains readable.

Best Tools for Background Creation

Free Tools (Start Here)

🎨 Canva: Extensive Story template library with custom color options
🎨 Adobe Express: Professional templates with brand color integration
🎨 Unfold: Story template app with various background styles
🎨 Over: Design app with font and background customization options

Instagram-Native Tools (Always Available)

✅ Create Mode: Built-in solid color backgrounds
✅ Brush Tool: Custom color application and artistic effects
✅ Stickers and GIFs: Animated elements to enhance backgrounds
✅ Music Integration: Visual music stickers that complement background design

💡 Pro Tip: Start with Instagram's native tools to learn the basics, then upgrade to Canva for professional templates.

Branded Background Templates Made Simple

Template Creation Process

Step 1: Review your brand guidelines for colors, fonts, and logo usage
Step 2: Create 4-5 template variations:

1. Announcement templates - Bold, attention-grabbing
2. Product showcase backgrounds - Clean, minimal
3. Quote templates - Text-friendly with good contrast
4. Behind-the-scenes templates - Casual, authentic feel

Step 3: Include these consistent elements: ✅ Logo placement (corner or subtle watermark)
✅ Brand colors (primary and secondary)
✅ Typography styles (2 fonts maximum)
✅ Visual patterns (if part of your brand)

Try This Now: Quick Template Test

📱 Action: Create your first template right now:

1. Open Canva on your phone
2. Search "Instagram Story"
3. Pick a template in your brand colors
4. Replace text with your announcement
5. Save to phone and post as Story

💡 Pro Tip: Save 3-5 go-to templates in your phone's favorites for quick access.

Boost Engagement with Smart Background Choices

Background Psychology That Works

Color Mood Impact: Different background colors influence viewer behavior:

• 🔵 Blue: Builds trust (great for testimonials)
• 🔴 Red: Creates urgency (perfect for sales)
• 🟢 Green: Suggests growth (ideal for tips)

Seasonal Adaptation: Match backgrounds to current events and holidays

A/B Testing: Test different background colors weekly to find your winners

💡 Pro Tip: Screenshot your best-performing Stories to identify which background colors get the most engagement.

Interactive Elements Integration

Smart Design: Create backgrounds that complement: ✅ Polls and question stickers
✅ Swipe-up calls-to-action
✅ Product tags and links
✅ Story Highlights (design for long-term viewing)

Accessibility Matters

⚠️ Watch Out: Always test your backgrounds for:

• Color blindness compatibility
• High contrast mode
• Text readability on different devices

Quick Test: Show your Story to someone else before posting - can they read it easily?

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Can I save custom background colors for future use?

Short Answer: Instagram doesn't save colors, but you can create templates in Canva and save them to your phone.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a phone album called "Story Templates" for quick access.

What's the best background color for text readability?

Golden Rule: High contrast wins every time.

✅ Best combinations:

• White/light gray backgrounds + dark text
• Dark backgrounds + white/light text

❌ Avoid: Light text on light backgrounds (impossible to read!)

Do branded backgrounds actually improve performance?

Yes! Consistent branded backgrounds typically improve: ✅ Brand recognition by 40%
✅ Story completion rates
✅ Overall professional appearance

Can I edit backgrounds after posting?

No - Instagram doesn't allow Story editing after posting. Plan your background before you hit share!

How do I change Story background to black?

Method 1: Use Create mode → tap color palette → select black Method 2: Use brush tool → select black → hold screen to fill

Can I use a photo as a Story background?

Yes: Upload any photo, then blur it using Instagram's focus tool or use it as-is. For best results, use photos with simple compositions.

What's the best background color for engagement?

Based on data: Bright colors (red, orange, yellow) get 23% more taps. But use colors that match your brand for consistency.

Does Instagram have a color picker tool?

Yes: When using the brush or text tool, press and hold on any color in your camera view to pick that exact color (eyedropper feature).

Can I create gradient backgrounds in Instagram?

No - Instagram doesn't have a native gradient tool. Create gradients in Canva or Photoshop, save to your phone, then upload as a Story background.

Your Next Move

Most Important Action: Create 3 branded background templates this week using your brand colors.

Start with:

1. Simple solid color for announcements
2. Subtle gradient for quotes/tips
3. Product photo blur for showcases

Quick Action Checklist

☐ Audit your last 10 Stories for background consistency
☐ Define 2-3 brand colors for Story backgrounds
☐ Create your first template using Method 1 or 4
☐ Test one new background style this week
☐ Save your best-performing backgrounds as templates

💡 Pro Tip: Use SocialRails to create and manage branded Instagram Story templates. Our design tools help you maintain consistent backgrounds across all Stories while tracking which designs drive the highest engagement and saves.

Related terms to explore:

• Instagram Stories - Complete guide to Story marketing
• Social Media Branding - Build consistent brand aesthetics