Creating colour

Creating Colour

When learning about colour, it can be helpful to observe the effect of pigments and how they alter the appearance of a paint.

While you may not be physically mixing the paint yourself, observe how a tiny element of pigment can dramatically alter the appearance and feel of a colour.

The Balance of Pigments

It is best to combine colours that contain similar pigments. For example, if you have a pink that contains a strong yellow undertone, it's advisable to choose an off-white that similarly relies on yellow pigments.

A well balanced colour will use earth pigments as a base, with stronger pigment imposed on top. This is how a paint can embody tonality while also offering stronger colour. In other words, the earth pigments become underlying tones, giving way to the stronger and colour-defining pigment.

The Seasoning

I often call the earth pigments 'the seasoning' within paint making, and this is because they may be added in small quantities but they're fundamental to the success and aesthetic of a colour.

The mineral pigments may be the more visually noticeable colours, but they will only achieve a balanced scheme if they are layered with a tonality provided by the earth pigments.

Employing colours with an undertone of earth pigment really is the best way to build any decorating scheme.