by Douglas Favors Ii

Created on: January 20, 2011   Last Updated: January 24, 2011

The best rule of thumb when mixing colors is not to get too excited.  Keep the emotional level down when mixing colors.  For example, an artist must objectively mix colors to be sure of minimal waste.  Color mixing should not excite the artist because the mixing becomes more a part of the person instead of the painting.  Surprisingly, the only part of the artwork that is not an extension of the artist is mixing colors.  Mixing should be precise and accurate to keep color integrity throughout the piece.  All art is emotional and mixing should be taken out of the art process as far as emotion.  The most frustration in any art piece comes from inaccurate/unsatisfactory colors.  The most common technique when mixing is no more than two colors in a mix.  Of course, the amounts of each color can change but more than two colors always creates disaster.  The only exception in the number of colors used is using black or white (to darken or lighten) to mix colors.  Another great technique is using two color palettes.  Two palettes allow for finished and experiment mix color or original and mixed color.  These palettes come in handy for large art pieces.  Being able to use different variations of a particular mix is easier with two palettes.  The brush stroke and type of brush also make a difference.  Most artist use a mixing brush to mix paints.  Some artists use a paintbrush as the mixing brush.  Truly, the type of brush is up to the artist.  However, the mixing motion should be uniform for all painting.  Before mixing make sure that the one palette is used for just colors and the other for mixing.  Any new colors for mixing should be placed on the first palette then mixed in using the second.  The stir-n-dab technique is the most common mixing form.  Simply use the brush to stir one color then dab it on the palette.  Then use the same brush to dab in whatever other color.  Always stir with the predominant color then dab with the accent color.  This is a simple way to keep your mixing to a minimum and controllable level without wasting paint.  Mixing is by no means a difficult task it just takes patience and a sound technique.  Remember that in art color is everything and using a technique ensures confidence in the piece.

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