how to color item names in minecraft 1.20 java

Natashya

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18-01-2025

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Want to add a splash of color to your Minecraft inventory and make your items stand out? This guide shows you how to color item names in Minecraft Java Edition 1.20 using the power of JSON and resource packs. This technique allows for highly customized item displays, making your game more visually appealing and easier to navigate.

Understanding the Method: JSON and Resource Packs

Minecraft's ability to customize item names with color relies on modifying the game's resource pack. Resource packs allow you to change textures, sounds, and even the game's code (within limits) using JSON files. We'll be creating and modifying a JSON file to achieve colored item names.

What you'll need:

• A Resource Pack Editor: Programs like MCEdit or a simple text editor will work.
• Basic Understanding of JSON: JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data-interchange format. The structure is key; incorrect formatting breaks the process.
• Patience: Setting up resource packs takes time. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't work on your first attempt.

Step-by-Step Guide to Coloring Item Names

1. Create a Resource Pack: If you don't already have one, create a new folder (name it something descriptive like "ColoredItems"). Inside, create another folder called assets, then a folder called minecraft, and finally a folder named lang.

2. Create the Language File: Within the lang folder, create a new file named en_us.json (or your preferred language code). This is where the magic happens.

3. Add Color Codes to the JSON File: Open en_us.json with a text editor. You'll add entries to this file, mapping item names to their colored versions. Minecraft uses special color codes starting with §. These codes are followed by a letter or number representing the color.

   Here's an example:

   {
     "item.minecraft.diamond": "§bDiamond",
     "item.minecraft.iron_ingot": "§7Iron Ingot",
     "item.minecraft.stick": "§aStick"
   }
   

   • §b makes text blue.
   • §7 makes text gray.
   • §a makes text green.

   A full list of color codes is provided below:

   • §0: Black
   • §1: Dark Blue
   • §2: Dark Green
   • §3: Dark Aqua
   • §4: Dark Red
   • §5: Dark Purple
   • §6: Gold
   • §7: Gray
   • §8: Dark Gray
   • §9: Blue
   • §a: Green
   • §b: Aqua
   • §c: Red
   • §d: Purple
   • §e: Yellow
   • §f: White
   • §r: Reset (removes color formatting)

4. Add More Items: Repeat the process above to color more items. Replace "item.minecraft.[item_name]" with the correct item name. You can find this in-game by hovering over an item with your mouse in your inventory. It's the second half of the hover text.

5. Import the Resource Pack into Minecraft: Launch Minecraft. Go to the resource packs menu. Click "Open Resource Packs Folder." Place your ColoredItems folder inside this folder. The pack should now appear in the Minecraft resource pack menu. Select it to activate it.

6. Test and Refine: Restart Minecraft and check your inventory. Your items should now display the colors you specified. If not, double-check your JSON for typos or incorrect formatting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Incorrect JSON Syntax: Ensure your JSON is properly formatted. Even a single missing bracket can prevent the pack from working. Use a JSON validator online to help.
• Typos: Double-check item names and color codes for typos.
• Case Sensitivity: Item names in JSON are case-sensitive.

Advanced Techniques

• Using Formatting Codes: Minecraft supports other formatting codes beyond colors, such as bold (§l), italic (§o), underlined (§n), and strikethrough (§m).
• Custom Resource Packs: Combine this technique with custom textures for a fully unique experience.

By following these steps, you can easily personalize your Minecraft experience with colored item names, making gameplay more visually engaging and intuitive. Remember to have fun experimenting with different color combinations!