Default WinForms labels, group boxes and panels are flat grey rectangles, and getting a smooth colour fade or rounded corners usually means writing your own paint code. Gradient Controls .Net replaces that work with a set of ready-made controls that have the gradient built in.
Quick facts
- Type: .NET WinForms component set for Visual Studio
- Vendor: Greatis Software
- Trial: a free trial version is available
- Included: a demo project for trying out the properties
Key features
Five gradient controls that replace the standard ones
The package gives you GradientLabel, GradientGroupBox, GradientPanel, GradientFlowLayoutPanel and GradientTableLayoutPanel. You can use the gradient on text labels, grouped options, or layout containers.
One Gradient property controls colours, angle and corners
Each control has a class-type Gradient property. Through it you set the colours, the gradient angle and the corner rounding.
Different rounding on every corner
Each corner takes its own rounding value. You can make a tab-like shape with two rounded corners, or any other outline you need.
Any gradient angle for a pseudo 3D look
The Angle property accepts any angle, not just horizontal or vertical. Angled fades can give panels a slightly three-dimensional look.
Switch off the default painting, or the whole effect
The DefaultPaint property turns off the standard drawing, such as the text in a Label or the frame and text in a GroupBox. Setting Enabled to False disables all gradient effects and returns the control to its default look.
Who it's for
It suits you if you build WinForms applications in Visual Studio and want nicer-looking forms without custom drawing code. It doesn't apply to web or WPF projects, since the controls are made for WinForms.
Pros and cons
- Pro: Familiar controls with the same names and layout behaviour plus a gradient.
- Pro: Per-corner rounding and free angle choice.
- Pro: A demo project lets you experiment before using it in your own forms.
- Con: It covers only five controls, so buttons, lists and other controls aren't included.
- Con: WinForms only.
FAQs
Can I try it first?
Yes. A free trial version with a demo project is offered, and the demo lets you play with the Gradient properties.
Can each corner have a different shape?
Yes. Rounding values can be set separately for every corner.
How do I get the normal look back?
Set Enabled to False on the Gradient property and the control returns to its default view.
Can I keep the standard text or frame drawing?
Yes. The DefaultPaint property controls whether the default text or frame painting is used.
System requirements
Requires the .NET Framework (2.0 or later) and a WinForms project in Visual Studio.