Published on 23 April 2025 6 min read

Mixing Red, Blue, and Yellow
Combining Blue and Brown
Using Black Gouache
Adding Black Watercolor
Utilizing Black Acrylic Paint

If you've ever found yourself in the middle of a painting project, only to realize you've run out of black paint, you're not alone. Many artists face this challenge, but thankfully, there's a solution right at your fingertips—literally! In fact, you can create your own black paint using colors you likely already have. In this guide, we will explore five proven methods on how to make black in paint. So let's roll up our sleeves and get started with the first method: mixing red, blue, and yellow.

Mixing Red, Blue, and Yellow

One of the simplest ways to produce black paint is by combining the three primary colors: red, blue, and yellow. It's a fun experiment that offers a great opportunity to explore color theory and the magic of mixing paints. So, what's the secret?

Understanding the Color Wheel

The color wheel is a circular diagram that shows the relationships between different colors. At its most basic level, it features the three primary colors—red, blue, and yellow. When you mix these colors together in equal parts, you can create black. Here's how:

Start with equal parts of red, blue, and yellow paint: Scoop out the same amount of each paint onto your palette. It doesn't matter what type of paint you use—oil, acrylic, or watercolor—they all work the same way.
Mix the colors together: Use your paintbrush to blend the colors together. As you mix, the colors will start to darken. Keep mixing until you get a uniform black color.

Tips for Perfecting Your Black Paint

Creating black paint from primary colors is a little like making a recipe. Sometimes, it requires a bit of tweaking to get the color just right. Here are some tips to help you perfect your homemade black paint:

Adjust the color balance: If your mixture is too purple or green, add more of the color that's missing. For example, if your black is too green, add more red paint.
Be patient: Mixing colors to create black can take a little time. Don't rush the process. The more you mix, the darker your paint will become.

And there you have it—how to make black in paint by mixing red, blue, and yellow. Who knew you could create something as complex as black with the three basic colors of the rainbow? Now you're ready to paint your world black—or any color you choose!

Combining Blue and Brown

Now that we've explored creating black paint with primary colors, let's move onto another method: the mix of blue and brown. While this may seem like an unlikely pair, these two colors can create a surprisingly deep black shade. Ready to give it a try? Let's dive in.

The Art of Color Mixing

Color mixing is an adventure. It's about exploring and experimenting until you find the perfect hue. When it comes to creating black paint, combining blue and brown is a fantastic method. So, how does it work?

Start with blue and brown paint: Just like with the previous method, scoop out equal parts of blue and brown paint onto your palette. Any kind of paint will work—be it watercolor, acrylic, or oil.
Mix the colors together: Use a paintbrush to mix the colors together. As you blend, the mixture will start to darken, eventually turning into a rich black color.

Perfecting Your Black

Just as with the previous method, creating the perfect black paint requires a bit of fine-tuning. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:

Adjust the proportions: Depending on the specific hue of your blue and brown paints, you might need to adjust the proportions. If the black is too light, add more blue. If it's too warm or reddish, add more brown.
Take your time: Patience is key when it comes to mixing paints. Don’t rush the process, and keep mixing until you achieve the black shade you're looking for.

And voila! Now you know how to make black in paint by combining blue and brown. This method can provide a unique black that adds depth and richness to your artwork. So, the next time you're out of black paint, you'll know just what to do!

Using Black Gouache

Well, we've already discovered two unique ways on how to make black in paint. Now, let's transition to a slightly different approach: using black gouache. Gouache is a type of paint that's known for its vibrant colors and versatility. But did you know it's also great for creating black paint? Here's how.

Understanding Black Gouache

Before we get started, it's important to understand what makes gouache paint special. Unlike watercolor or acrylic, gouache is opaque, meaning it covers the surface completely and doesn't let any light through. This makes it great for creating deep, dark colors—like black.

Out of the Tube: Black gouache is pretty straightforward. You simply squeeze it out of the tube and apply it directly to your painting. No mixing required!
Dilute if Needed: Gouache can be diluted with water for a lighter, more transparent black. Just add a few drops of water to your paint and mix until you get the desired consistency.

Achieving the Perfect Black

Just as with other paints, there are a couple of tricks to getting the perfect black with gouache:

Layering: If your black isn't quite dark enough, try layering. Apply a coat of paint, let it dry, then apply another. This can deepen the color without altering the hue.
Variation: For a more dynamic black, try mixing in a bit of another color. A touch of blue or brown can give your black a subtle undertone that adds depth to your artwork.

And there you have it! Using black gouache is a simple and effective way on how to make black in paint. It's especially handy when you're in a hurry and don't have time for mixing. So, why not give it a go on your next painting project?

Adding Black Watercolor

Now that we've tackled black gouache, let's switch gears and explore another method on how to make black in paint: using black watercolor. Watercolor is a beloved medium among artists for its soft, fluid effects. But can it produce a solid, deep black? Absolutely, and here's how.

Understanding Black Watercolor

Unlike other types of paint, watercolor is translucent, which means it allows light to pass through. This might make you think achieving a solid black is impossible. However, with the right technique, you can create a rich, deep black that rivals any acrylic or oil paint.

Out of the Tube: Just like with gouache, you can get black watercolor straight from the tube. Apply it directly to your paper for a deep, intense black.
Dilute for Tonal Variety: One of the advantages of watercolor is the ability to create a variety of tones. By adding more or less water, you can adjust the black's intensity, moving from a soft gray to a deep black.

Mastering the Watercolor Black

Getting a solid black with watercolor might take a bit of practice, but it's definitely doable. Here are a few tips:

Layering: If your black seems a bit too transparent, don't worry! Just like with gouache, you can apply multiple layers of watercolor to deepen the shade. Just remember to let each layer dry before adding the next one.
Experiment with Mixes: For a unique twist, mix your black watercolor with other colors. A dash of red or blue can give your black a hint of color, making it more interesting and complex.

So there you have it, another practical way on how to make black in paint. With a bit of patience and creativity, black watercolor can become a versatile tool in your painting arsenal. Ready to give it a try?

Utilizing Black Acrylic Paint

We've journeyed through several methods on how to make black in paint, and now we're arriving at a personal favorite: black acrylic paint. Acrylics are versatile, easy to work with, and known for their vibrant colors. But how does black fit into the picture? Let's find out.

Why Choose Black Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is a popular choice for many artists, and for good reason. Here's why you might want to consider using black acrylic in your next artwork:

Opacity: Unlike watercolor, acrylic paint is opaque. This means that when you lay down a layer of black acrylic, you get a solid, deep black that covers anything underneath.
Drying Time: Acrylics dry quickly, which can be an advantage if you're looking to add multiple layers or details on top of your black base.
Flexibility: Acrylics can be used on a wide range of surfaces, from canvas to wood, making them a versatile choice for all types of projects.

Getting the Most Out of Your Black Acrylic Paint

Using black acrylic paint is simple, but there are a few tricks that can help you get the most out of this medium:

Thin It Out: Straight out of the tube, black acrylic can be quite intense. But don't be afraid to thin it out with a bit of water or medium to create a range of tones. Remember, you have control over the opacity!
Blend It: Black acrylic paint blends beautifully with other colors. Try adding a touch of blue or brown to your black for a unique, customized shade.

And just like that, we've explored another method on how to make black in paint. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, black acrylic paint offers a world of possibilities. So, are you ready to incorporate it into your next masterpiece?

If you enjoyed learning about making black paint and want to expand your knowledge of mixing colors, check out the workshop 'Making Skin Colours With Paint' by David Shepherd. This workshop will teach you how to create a wide range of skin tones using paint, further enhancing your skills as an artist.