How to Make Purple Colour by Mixing Two Colours
Understanding how to make purple colour by mixing two colours is essential for artists, designers, and DIY enthusiasts alike. Purple is a versatile and vibrant hue that can range from deep, rich shades to soft, pastel tones. Whether you’re working with paints, dyes, or digital media, mastering the art of creating purple through color mixing opens up endless creative possibilities. In this guide, we’ll explore the science behind color mixing, the best color combinations for achieving perfect purple hues, and practical tips for various applications.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Color Theory Basics
- Primary Colors and Purple Creation
- Step-by-Step Mixing Techniques
- Creating Different Purple Shades
- Mixing Purple in Different Mediums
- Practical Applications of Mixed Purple
Understanding Color Theory Basics
Before diving into how to make purple colour by mixing two colours, it’s important to grasp some fundamental color theory concepts. The color wheel is the foundation of all color mixing, showing the relationships between different hues.
The Color Wheel Explained
The traditional color wheel consists of:
- Primary colors: Red, blue, and yellow (cannot be created by mixing other colors)
- Secondary colors: Green, orange, and purple (created by mixing two primary colors)
- Tertiary colors: Created by mixing primary and secondary colors
Complementary and Analogous Colors
Understanding these relationships helps when mixing colors to make purple:
- Complementary colors: Opposite on the color wheel (purple’s complement is yellow)
- Analogous colors: Adjacent on the wheel (for purple: red-violet and blue-violet)
Primary Colors and Purple Creation
The most fundamental method for how to make purple colour by mixing two colours involves combining the primary colors red and blue. However, the specific shades you use will dramatically affect your results.
Choosing the Right Red and Blue
Not all reds and blues are equal when mixing purple:
- Best reds for purple: Crimson, magenta, or rose (avoid orange-leaning reds)
- Best blues for purple: Ultramarine or cobalt (avoid green-leaning blues)
The Perfect Ratio
Experiment with these starting ratios:
- Begin with equal parts red and blue
- Adjust based on desired hue:
- More red = warmer, red-violet purple
- More blue = cooler, blue-violet purple
Step-by-Step Mixing Techniques
Follow these detailed steps for consistently perfect purple results when mixing two colours to make purple.
Basic Mixing Method
- Prepare your workspace with a clean mixing surface
- Squeeze small amounts of your chosen red and blue paints
- Start with a 1:1 ratio using a palette knife or brush
- Mix thoroughly until no streaks remain
- Evaluate the color and adjust as needed
Advanced Color Adjustments
To refine your purple:
- Lighten: Add white gradually (creates lavender or lilac tones)
- Darken: Add small amounts of black or the complementary color (yellow)
- Desaturate: Add a touch of gray or the complement
Creating Different Purple Shades
One of the most exciting aspects of learning how to make purple colour by mixing two colours is discovering the range of possible shades.
Popular Purple Variations
- Violet: More blue than red, bright and vibrant
- Royal purple: Deep, rich with slightly more red
- Lavender: Light purple with white added
- Mauve: Grayish-purple, desaturated
- Eggplant: Very dark purple approaching black
Temperature Control
Purples can be warm or cool:
- Warm purples: Contain more red (think magenta)
- Cool purples: Contain more blue (think periwinkle)
Mixing Purple in Different Mediums
The principles of how to make purple colour by mixing two colours apply across various mediums, but each has unique considerations.
Acrylic and Oil Paints
Key considerations:
- Mix thoroughly for even color distribution
- Remember that oil paints dry darker
- Acrylics dry quickly – mix enough for your project
Watercolors
Special techniques:
- Work with transparent layers (glazing)
- Mix on paper for luminous effects
- Use less pigment for softer purples
Digital Color Mixing
In RGB color space:
- Combine red and blue light
- Use color picker tools for precision
- Remember digital purple may look different printed
Practical Applications of Mixed Purple
Now that you understand how to make purple colour by mixing two colours, let’s explore some creative uses.
Artistic Uses
- Create moody landscapes with deep purples
- Use light purples for floral paintings
- Combine with complements for vibrant contrast
Design Applications
- Branding and logo design
- Interior design accent walls
- Textile and fashion design
DIY Projects
- Custom paint colors for home decor