Mixing Orange & Blue: Secrets to Perfect Shade

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

Welcome to our exploration of color mixing, specifically focusing on the captivating pairing of orange and blue. Today, we'll unlock the secrets to creating the perfect shade when combining these two colors. Whether you're a budding artist, an interior designer, or someone simply wanting to understand more about colors, this blog is for you. Let's dive in and discover what color orange and blue make when mixed together!

1. The Magic of Color Mixing

Color mixing is more than just combining two hues; it's about understanding the fundamentals of color theory and knowing how to achieve the perfect balance. To truly grasp the magic behind the fusion of orange and blue, we first need to understand the role of primary colors, the color wheel, and the basics of color theory.

The Role of Primary Colors

Primary colors—red, yellow, and blue—serve as the foundation of all other colors. By mixing these primary colors in different proportions, we can create an array of beautiful shades. For instance, mixing yellow and red gives us orange. That's right—you're already a step closer to understanding what color orange and blue make!

Understanding the Color Wheel

Think of the color wheel as a roadmap of colors. It's a circular diagram where colors seamlessly transition into each other, making it an invaluable tool for anyone dabbling in color mixing. The color wheel is split into warm colors (like orange and red) and cool colors (like blue and green). This division helps artists and designers achieve a harmonious color balance.

Color Theory Basics

Color theory is like the grammar of colors—it tells us how colors interact, complement, or contrast with each other. A key concept in color theory is that of complementary colors. These are colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel. And here's a fun fact: orange and blue are complementary colors. They balance each other out, and when mixed, they create an entirely different color. But which color is it? Keep reading to find out!

2. Combining Orange and Blue

Now that we have a handle on the basics of color theory, let's get to the heart of the matter—mixing orange and blue. But first, it's important to understand why we are focusing on these two colors and how they can achieve a balance that's pleasing to the eye.

Why Orange and Blue?

Orange and blue, while seemingly different, hold a unique relationship in the world of colors. They are complementary colors, meaning they amplify each other when they are side by side but create a neutral color when mixed. This relationship allows artists to create depth and contrast in their work. Plus, combining these two colors can result in a surprising shade, answering the question of what color orange and blue make.

Exploring Complementary Colors

Complementary colors are a pair of colors that, when combined in the right proportions, produce a grayscale color. They are opposite each other on the color wheel, hence the term 'complementary.' When you mix orange (a warm color) and blue (a cool color), they neutralize each other. It's this neutralization that leads to a whole new color. Intriguing, isn't it?

Achieving Balance

Achieving balance is key in color mixing. You don't want one color to overpower the other. When mixing orange and blue, you'll need to experiment to find the right ratio that gives you the color you desire. Too much orange, and the mixture will lean towards a warmer tone. Too much blue, and you'll end up with a cooler result. Balance is essential when uncovering what color orange and blue make.

3. The Perfect Shade

So, we've explored the world of combining orange and blue. But how do we get to that perfect shade we're after? Let's break it down step by step.

Defining the Perfect Shade

What is the "perfect shade" you ask? Well, it's subjective and can vary depending on the project or piece you're working on. However, for our purposes—mixing orange and blue—the perfect shade would be a harmonious blend of both, creating a unique and pleasing color. The exact hue might be a surprise, further answering the question: "what color do orange and blue make?"

Mixing for Perfection

Perfection in color mixing comes with practice. Start with equal parts of orange and blue and observe the result. Is it too orange? Add more blue. Too blue? Add more orange. Remember, achieving the perfect shade is a process of trial and error. Don't be afraid to experiment!

Experimenting with Tints and Shades

When you've found a good blend of orange and blue, don't stop there. Try adding white to create a tint or black to create a shade. This will give you a range of beautiful colors, all from the base of orange and blue. By playing around with tints and shades, you're not just discovering what color orange and blue make, but you're also unlocking a spectrum of possibilities!

4. The Role of Lighting

Lighting plays a critical role in how we perceive color. Ever notice how a painting can look drastically different from morning to evening? That's lighting at play. So, how does it affect our orange and blue mix? Let's find out.

Impact of Natural Light

Under the bright, clear light of a sunny day, colors seem more vibrant and intense. So, if you mix orange and blue under natural light, the resulting color might appear more vivid. However, as the day progresses and light changes, your color might look different. The lesson here? Always check your mixed colors in different lighting conditions!

Working with Artificial Light

Under artificial light, the color you get from mixing orange and blue might appear warmer or cooler depending on the type of bulb used. So, if you're painting a room in your house, consider the type of light you'll most often use in that room when mixing your colors.

Manipulating Light

Can't control the light? Control the color! By adding more blue, you can create a cooler shade, perfect for spaces with warm artificial light. Conversely, adding more orange can warm up a color in a room with cool light. It's a bit like being a color magician, manipulating your colors to work perfectly under any light.

5. Practical Tips and Tricks

Now that you've got a handle on the theory, it's time to get your hands dirty — or rather, painty! Here are some handy pointers to help you master the art of mixing orange and blue.

Palette Selection

Choosing the right palette is just as important as mixing the colors. You might think, "what's the big deal? It's just a palette!" But, the truth is, a clean, well-organized palette can make a world of difference. Imagine trying to mix the exact shade of greenish-brown that orange and blue make on a chaotic, messy palette. Not so easy, right?

Color Matching

Color matching can be a tricky business. You might mix the perfect shade of greenish-brown in the morning, but can you recreate it in the afternoon? To help with this, keep notes of your color mixes. It's a simple trick, but it can save you a lot of head-scratching in the long run.

Avoiding Pitfalls

Finally, let's talk about some common pitfalls. One of the biggest mistakes you can make when mixing colors is adding too much paint at once. Remember, it's easier to add more color than to take it away. So, go slow, and add your colors bit by bit. And most importantly, don't be afraid to experiment. That's half the fun of it!

If you're fascinated by the art of mixing colors and want to dive deeper into understanding the perfect shade, check out 'Intro to Colour Theory' workshop by Matt Herbert. This workshop will provide you with valuable knowledge and techniques to master color combinations and create visually stunning works of art.