Christina Daniels | Daniels Design & Decor January 25, 2023
Using a Color Wheel: A Step-by-Step Guide
A color wheel is a visual representation of the color spectrum that can be used to create harmonious color schemes. Whether you're a professional designer or just looking to add some color to your home decor, understanding how to use a color wheel can help you make informed decisions about color choices.
Step 1: Familiarize yourself with the color wheel.
The color wheel is typically divided into 12 sections, each representing a different color and you can pick them up at any arts and craft store. The colors are arranged in a circle, with primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) evenly spaced around the wheel with secondary colors (green, orange, and purple) in the middle of each primary color. Tertiary colors (red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-purple, and red-purple) are located between the primary and secondary colors. To visualize this more simply, each primary color blends together, with secondary and tertiary colors in between them.
Step 2: Understand the color relationships.
The colors on the color wheel can be grouped into warm and cool colors. Warm colors, such as red and orange, are associated with feelings of warmth and excitement. Cool colors, such as blue and green, are associated with feelings of calm and relaxation.
Colors that are next to each other on the color wheel are considered analogous colors. Analogous colors create a harmonious and cohesive color scheme. Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel are considered complementary colors. Complementary colors create a high contrast and dynamic color scheme.
Step 3: Choose a color scheme.
Now that you understand the basic relationships between colors, you can start creating your own color schemes.
Monochromatic color scheme: Choose one color and use different shades and tints of that color. This creates a cohesive and harmonious color scheme.
Analogous color scheme: Choose three colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. This creates a harmonious and cohesive color scheme.
Complementary color scheme: Choose two colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. This creates a high contrast and dynamic color scheme.
Triadic color scheme: Choose three colors that are evenly spaced around the color wheel. This creates a balanced and dynamic color scheme.
Step 4: Experiment and have fun.
If you don't plan on consulting an interior designer, the color wheel is a powerful tool that can help you create beautiful and effective color schemes on your own. It's important to remember that color is a personal and subjective thing. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with different color combinations. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose colors that make you happy and that work well in the space.