Welcome back to our Colour Mixing 101 series! In this tutorial, Stephen explores how to mix beige — or maybe it’s soft pink? This versatile shade can be used in so many ways, from creating lifelike skin tones to adding warmth in stone, or natural elements.
Mixing beige might seem simple, but Stephen’s step-by-step approach will teach you how to blend colours like a pro, avoiding a flat, dull result and instead achieving a soft, balanced tone. You’ll learn the rules of colour mixing, using a basic palette to create a wide variety of shades with ease.
1. Start with a Warm Base
Stephen begins by choosing a warm, neutral color as a base, such as yellow ochre or burnt sienna. These earth tones provide a foundation for a natural-looking beige.
2. Add a touch of Red
To achieve a soft pink undertone, add a hint of red. The ratio is key here: a small amount of red goes a long way in bringing warmth and subtle pink hues to your mix.
3. Balance with White
White is essential for creating the creamy, muted tone of beige. Gradually add white to soften the intensity of the red and yellow, adjusting until you achieve your desired lightness.
4. Adjust as Needed
Don’t be afraid to adjust the mix! Add more yellow for warmth, red for a pinker hue, or white to lighten. Testing on paper will help you see how the shade will look when dry.
Why Mix Beige?
Learning to mix beige or soft pink is a valuable skill for any artist. This colour is commonly found in natural and organic forms and can be adapted for a range of subjects. Knowing how to mix it yourself saves you from purchasing pre-mixed tubes and builds your confidence in handling colours.
Stay tuned for more colour mixing tutorials with our Colour Mixing 101 series!
Happy painting!