Understanding the Color Wheel: Opposites Attract
Colors are a crucial element in design and can evoke different emotions and responses. Color coordination is the art of selecting colors that complement each other to create an aesthetically pleasing design. To achieve this, it is essential to understand the color wheel. The color wheel is a tool that helps us identify and arrange colors in a logical sequence. The most basic aspect of the color wheel is understanding color relationships. Opposite colors, also known as complementary colors, are located directly across from each other on the color wheel. These colors create the most impactful contrast when paired together.How to Create an Aesthetically Pleasing Color Scheme
The simplest rule of color coordination is to select two colors that are opposite on the color wheel. For example, Yellow and Purple, Blue and Orange, or Red and Green. This combination creates a striking visual contrast that draws attention to your design. However, it is crucial to use the right amount of each color in a design. The rule of thumb is to use a dominant color for 60% of the design, a secondary color for 30%, and an accent color for the remaining 10%. When selecting colors, consider the mood that you want to convey. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow, create a sense of energy and warmth, while cool colors such as blue, green, and purple create a sense of calmness and tranquility. Neutral colors like grey, black, and white, provide a balance and allow more colorful elements in the design to stand out. Key Point: Select two colors that are opposite on the color wheel to create an aesthetically pleasing color scheme. Use a dominant color for 60%, a secondary color for 30%, and an accent color for 10%.The Power of Contrast in Color Coordination
Contrast is essential in design because it adds visual interest and depth. Achieving contrast in color coordination is vital because it draws attention to the design. Using complementary colors is an excellent way to achieve contrast. Complementary colors are contrasting colors, and they have the power to evoke emotion and enhance the visual impact of your design. However, it is important to use complementary colors with care. Overuse of complementary colors can result in a busy and clashing design. When selecting complementary colors, consider the intensity and brightness of the colors used. For instance, using two highly saturated colors may be overpowering. Adjusting the saturation of the colors can result in a more balanced and visually pleasing design. Tip: Adjust the saturation of complementary colors for a more balanced design.Tips for Selecting Complementary Colors
When selecting complementary colors, consider the following tips to avoid creating an unbalanced design:- Consider the mood and emotion that you want to convey
- Adjust the saturation of the colors to achieve a balanced look
- Use color palettes to choose complementary colors
- Use shades of the selected colors to add depth and dimension to your design
The Dos and Don’ts of Using Complementary Colors
When using complementary colors, follow these dos and donts to create a visually appealing design: Dos:- Use contrasting colors to create visual interest
- Use complementary colors to add depth and dimension to your design
- Use bold colors sparingly to avoid overpowering your design
- Use too many bold and bright complementary colors together
- Overuse complementary colors, as they can be draining on the eyes
- Use too many neutral colors, as they can be boring and lack visual interest