Mixing the perfect shade of orange can feel challenging, but understanding how to use a colour wheel makes all the difference! In this tutorial, Jess explores the nuances of mixing orange paint — and it all comes down to the type of primary colours you choose.
When mixing orange, it’s not just about combining yellow and red—it’s about knowing whether you’re using warm or cool versions of those primary shades. A “warm” yellow will give you a much different orange than a “cool” yellow. But here’s the key: instead of relying on abstract terms like warm and cool, it’s more helpful to know where each colour sits on the colour wheel. This understanding helps to take the guesswork out of mixing and gives you control over your final hue.
How the Colour Wheel Helps
A colour wheel is more than just a guide for blending; it’s a tool for understanding how neighbouring colours will interact with each other. By knowing if your yellow leans toward green or orange, you can predict how it will mix with red to create the orange you’re aiming for. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to quickly create a variety of orange shades by adjusting your primary tones.
Test and Learn
In our Beginner Art Course, we encourage students to create tester pages where they mix various colours together. This creates a reference sheet that artists can return to for years to come! So, why not give it a try? Start mixing your yellows and reds, and observe how small changes can create a completely new orange.
The more you understand the colour wheel, the more you can expand your palette and create dynamic, vibrant artwork with confidence.
