Hi @VickiRose1 ,
To answer your first question. This is expected as a card on a project needs to be connected to a task or issue, so if you simply add the card to the project, this will be the result. Instead, you can connect the card to an existing task, or simply note the project on the card instead of connecting it.
You can create cards from the project area. I recommend reviewing this documentation: https://experienceleague.adobe.com/en/docs/workfront/using/agile/boards-in-workfront/connected-cards
Colored options are not currently available for cards. This would be a good idea I would recommend submitting this as a product enhancement via our Innovation Lab. You can access the Innovation Lab through the Community tab in Experience League. Click on Workfront and then choose Ideas.
- Nathan