Key takeaways:
- Minecraft allows players to customize text colors using special color codes
- Color codes work in chat, signs, books, item names, and more
- Different codes are used depending on the Minecraft edition and platform
Minecraft is known for its simple, blocky graphics, but did you know you can add some visual flair by changing the color of in-game text? Using special color codes, you can make your messages stand out in chat, add color to signs and books, customize item names, and more.
Whether you’re playing on Java Edition, Bedrock Edition, or a server, it’s easy to use color codes to give your text some style. Here’s everything you need to know to start coloring your text in Minecraft.
Table of Contents
How to Use Color Codes
Minecraft color codes are short combinations of symbols and numbers or letters that you add before your text. When the game sees one of these codes, it changes the color of the following text accordingly.
The exact symbol used for color codes varies depending on your Minecraft version:
| Edition | Color Code Symbol |
|---|---|
| Java | § |
| Bedrock | § |
| Servers | & |
To use a color code, simply type the symbol (like §) immediately followed by the code for your desired color. Then, type your text as normal.
For example, to make your text red in Java Edition, you would type:§cHello world!
Which would display as:
Hello world!
Color Code List
Here are the codes for all 16 text color options in Minecraft:
| Color | Code |
|---|---|
| Black | 0 |
| Dark Blue | 1 |
| Dark Green | 2 |
| Dark Aqua | 3 |
| Dark Red | 4 |
| Purple | 5 |
| Gold | 6 |
| Gray | 7 |
| Dark Gray | 8 |
| Blue | 9 |
| Green | a |
| Aqua | b |
| Red | c |
| Pink | d |
| Yellow | e |
| White | f |
So to make your text blue in Bedrock Edition for example, you would type:§9Hello world!
Formatting Codes
In addition to colors, there are also special formatting codes you can use to change the look of your text:
| Formatting | Java Code | Bedrock/Server Code |
|---|---|---|
| Bold | §l | §l or &l |
| Italic | §o | §o or &o |
| Underline | §n | &n |
| §m | &m | |
| Obfuscated | §k | &k |
| Reset | §r | §r or &r |
The Reset code (§r) is special – it removes all color and formatting, returning the text to default. This is useful if you want to change colors in the middle of a message.
For example:§aGreen §r§9Blue
Would display as:
Green Blue
Using Color Codes In-Game
Now that you know the codes, here are some ways to use them in Minecraft.
In Chat
Applying color and formatting to chat messages is a great way to emphasize important info or just have fun with friends. Simply type the codes at the beginning of your message before sending.
On Signs
Placing a sign and typing color codes lets you create custom colored signs. This is perfect for labeling builds, leaving directions, or making pixel art.
In Books
When writing in a Book and Quill, you can use color and formatting to organize info and make your books look more professional. The codes work in book titles too!
Naming Items
Using an Anvil, you can apply color and formatting codes to item names. This lets you create custom named gear with colored text.
Dyed Leather Armor
Leather horse armor can be dyed in Minecraft, but did you know you can use color codes to make the armor names match? This is a nice touch for mounted players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do color codes work everywhere in Minecraft?
Color codes can be used in most places where you can enter text, like in chat, on signs, in books, and in item names using an anvil. However, there are a few places they don’t work, like in world names or the “Multiplayer” server list.
Are color codes case-sensitive?
Yes, color codes are case-sensitive. For example, &A and &a will produce different colors (green and aqua, respectively). Make sure to use the correct capitalization!
Can I combine multiple formatting codes?
Yes! For example, you can make text bold, underlined, and red by combining the codes like this:&c&n&lHello world!
How do I reset text back to default?
In Java Edition, use the §r code. In Bedrock Edition and servers, use &r. This will remove all color and formatting from the following text.
Can I use color codes in server MOTDs?
Yes, most servers support using color codes in the MOTD (message of the day). However, the exact code varies by server type. Generally, Bukkit/Spigot servers use & codes, while the official Mojang server software uses JSON formatting.
Get Creative With Color
Minecraft color codes are a fun way to customize your in-game text and give your world some style. Whether you’re chatting with friends, labeling your builds, or writing books, try adding some color to make your text pop.
With so many options to choose from, the possibilities are endless. So get creative and see what colorful creations you can come up with!
