What colors work well together, and how do you choose the right combinations to match different hues? You may be surprised to learn that there is actually a science behind color matching and which colors work best together. Knowing how to match colors can aid with a variety of industrial and design applications. Explore our color matching guide to learn more.

Color Matching and Color Theory

Color theory provides an organizational structure for mixing and matching colors accurately. Essentially, color theory is a set of guidelines that use accumulated observations of human perception and psychology to identify color combinations that evoke different observer responses.

When you use color matching, you’re able to combine hues that create a pleasing aesthetic for viewers. Some critical elements for effective matching include an eye-catching contrast and the right vibrancy to evoke emotion. You’ll want to pay attention to how different selections across the color wheel can create the desired emotional and psychological response from your audience.

Primary Colors

The color wheel includes three primary colors foundational to other hues — red, blue and yellow. These three colors will always harmonize and are classic colors that work with many different designs. Eye-catching and bold, they create a vibrant visual effect. Two primary colors together will look bold yet sophisticated, and all three together can look cheerful and energetic.

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Complementary Colors

On the color wheel, complementary colors are two colors on opposite sides of the structure. Blue and orange, green and pink, and purple and yellow are all complementary color combinations. The contrast between complementary colors helps both hues stand out and adds visual interest. Choosing complementary colors with a similar brightness will look particularly pleasing together.

This type of color combination produces a marked contrast, so ensure you’re using it tastefully. Complementary colors offer eye-catching interest, but too much can feel overdone. One option might be to use a few complementary colors with some more toned-down options that don’t contrast as strongly.

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Analogous Colors

Analogous color matching works by using colors within the same family for harmony and gentle blending. Analogous colors are colors next to each other on the color wheel, such as orange and yellow. By putting together similar colors of slightly different warmth, this type of combination creates a nuanced and rich harmony rather than contrast.

In this type of scheme, one color will accent, one will support and one will stand out as dominant. Analogous colors work well for accenting or enhancing one element.

Choose HunterLab for Color Measurement Solutions

At HunterLab, we’re passionate about color and its practical applications in critical industries. If you need trusted solutions for color measurement, we offer innovative equipment and tools to address your requirements. We’ve been developing cutting-edge solutions for over 65 years, and we continue to lead the industry, ensuring product safety and quality with accurate color measurements.

For more information about our products, reach out to our team today.