In today’s video, I share some valuable insights on color combinations. I understand that some people find it challenging to use a color wheel. It can be confusing and a bit overwhelming. To make things easier for you, I’ve compiled some of my best tips to help you choose the perfect colors for your next scrapbook project.
This back-to-school teen scrapbook layout was created with the September Hip Kit. The layout has more of a split complementary color scheme. Before I share my tips for using a Color Wheel, let’s take a look at what a Split Complementary Color Scheme is.
The color combination should complement the photo, enhance the narrative, and evoke the desired emotion. For this page, I selected an array of violet, pink, and blue hues with a touch of yellow.
This combination brought focus to my photo, shared the back-to-school excitement, and created a balance on the page with color.
Tip 1: Learn How the Color Wheel Works
Understanding the color wheel is essential when you want to create a balance of color in your project. The color wheel is comprised of primary colors (red, yellow, and blue), secondary colors (orange, green, and purple), and tertiary colors (yellow-green, blue-green, blue-purple, red-purple, red-orange, and yellow-orange).
Typically, color wheels are structured to allow you to position the arrow on your primary color. You can then choose lighter or darker versions of the same color, as well as other colors to complement it.
Throughout the years, I have collected multiple color wheels tools for my craft room. If you would like a list of the Color Wheels I suggest, you can view them here in my Amazon Store.
Tip 2: Focus on Application, not Terminology
Color theory terminology such as complementary, monochromatic, and analogous can already be challenging to comprehend. The thought of having to memorize them all adds to the complexity. Instead of struggling to learn every term, concentrate on how to use the color wheel.
In order to create a cohesive design for the back-to-school theme, I chose to feature the teen in the photo and match her clothing with a violet-blue color scheme. This color was used in the photo frame, title, florals, and background design to draw your eyes to the photo.
Tip 3: Use the Color Wheel to Add to the Color Palette
Unless you are going for a single-color layout, it’s best to add some additional colors to your page. The color wheel is a great tool to have as it helps you determine which colors play well together.
The color wheel displays red-violet and blue beside the blue-violet hue. The mother’s shirt is red-violet. Adding a lighter version of that color to the page adds to the story. Blue was used to tone down the strong violet shades on the layout.
Tip 4: Use Color to Share Emotion
To capture the celebratory and playful spirit of the teen’s attitude and enthusiasm, I needed to establish the right tone. According to color theorists, yellow is commonly associated with happiness, so it’s the perfect color to incorporate into the design.
Did you know that yellow is a fantastic complement to violet on the color wheel? When added to a page with stitched lines, stamping, and other embellishments, it creates a colorful pop that can completely transform the overall look and feel of the page.
If you would like to see the process for this page and learn more about selecting colors that enhance your photos, I have a simple video you might enjoy.
When it comes to choosing colors, always remember to keep it simple. Choose one color, and experiment with suggested color palettes or custom ones. At the end of the day, most creators, like me, just go with their gut.
I hope this inspired you to try something new. If you have any questions about this project or the supplies listed above, feel free to leave me a comment.
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