Instagram Notes let you pick from a set of preset colors, and the process takes about 10 seconds
When you create or edit a Note on Instagram, the app shows you a row of color options at the bottom of the screen. Tap the color circle you want, and your Note background changes to that color. Instagram does not let you upload a custom color or use a color picker — you choose from the colors the app provides.
The color options stay the same whether you are creating a new Note or editing one you already posted. If you change your mind after posting, you can edit the Note and pick a different color without losing the text.
Key Takeaways
- Instagram Notes display a row of preset color circles at the bottom of the compose screen, and tapping any circle changes the background color when ready.
- You cannot create or import a custom color — you must choose from Instagram's built-in palette.
- Changing a Note's color after you post it works the same way: open the Note, tap edit, and select a new color from the row.
- The color you choose applies only to that single Note; other Notes you create keep their own colors.
How to change the color when you create a new Note
Open Instagram and tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner to go to your profile. Look for the "Notes" section near the top — it usually shows a small icon and says "Add note" or displays any Notes you have already posted. Tap "Add note" to start a new one.
Type or paste the text you want in your Note. At the bottom of the compose screen, you will see a horizontal row of colored circles. Each circle represents a different background color. Tap the circle for the color you want — the Note preview above will change to show that color. Once you have picked your color and written your text, tap "Share" or "Post" to publish the Note.
How to change the color of a Note you already posted
Go to your profile and find the Note you want to edit. Tap the three dots or menu icon in the corner of that Note. Select "Edit" from the menu that appears.
The Note will open in edit mode, and you will see the same row of color circles at the bottom. Tap the new color you want to use. Your text stays the same — only the background color changes. Tap "Done" or "Save" to explore the change. The updated Note will show the new color to anyone viewing your profile.
What colors are available
Instagram provides roughly 8 to 12 color options, though the exact number and shades can vary depending on your phone's operating system and which version of the Instagram app you have installed. The palette typically includes warm tones like orange, pink, and red; cool tones like blue, purple, and teal; and neutral options like gray and white.
The colors are designed to be readable — text appears in black or white depending on the background color you choose, so lighter backgrounds show dark text and darker backgrounds show light text. This contrast makes your Note readable to other people viewing your profile.
Why you might not see all the color options
If the color row is missing or incomplete, your Instagram app may be out of date. Open your phone's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store), search for Instagram, and check whether an update is available. Install any pending updates and restart the app.
If you are using an older version of Instagram or a phone that does not support the latest features, some colors may not appear. Updating to the latest version usually restores the full color palette. If the colors still do not show after updating, try logging out and back in, or uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
Notes color versus story background color
Instagram Notes and Instagram Stories are two different features with separate color controls. A Note is a short text message that appears on your profile; a Story is a photo or video that disappears after 24 hours. The color options for Notes are preset and limited to the row at the bottom of the compose screen. Stories offer more color control — you can use a color picker, upload a photo as a background, or explore filters and gradients.
If you are trying to change the color of a Story and not a Note, you will find the color tools in a different location. Look for the paint bucket icon or color menu in the Story compose screen, which gives you access to a full color picker rather than preset circles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a custom color for my Note background?
No. Instagram only offers the preset colors shown in the row at the bottom of the compose screen. You cannot upload a hex code, use a color picker, or create a custom shade. You must choose from the colors Instagram provides.
If I change a Note's color, does it change for everyone or just me?
The color change applies to everyone. When you edit a Note and pick a new color, anyone viewing your profile will see the Note in the new color. The change is permanent unless you edit it again.
Do all my Notes have to be the same color?
No. Each Note can have its own color. You pick the color individually when you create or edit each Note, so you can have one Note in blue, another in pink, and a third in gray all on the same profile.
What if the color row does not appear when I try to create a Note?
Update your Instagram app to the latest version available in your app store. If the colors still do not show, try logging out and logging back in. If the problem continues, uninstall and reinstall Instagram. Notes and their color feature may not be available in all countries or on all account types.