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How Do I Mix Colors to Get Terracotta?

Published in Color Mixing Guide 2 mins read

To get terracotta, you mix orange and a tiny bit of blue.

Mixing Terracotta Color

Terracotta is a warm, earthy color reminiscent of the clay-based ceramic material it's named after. Achieving the perfect terracotta shade involves a simple yet precise mixing process.

Steps to Mix Terracotta

  1. Start with Orange: Begin by mixing red and yellow to create a vibrant orange. This forms the base of your terracotta color.
  2. Add a Touch of Blue: Introduce a small amount of blue to the orange. Blue is a complementary color to orange, and adding a tiny bit will help to achieve the desired earthy tone of terracotta. Be cautious not to add too much blue, as it can quickly overpower the orange.

Adjusting the Shade

  • If the color appears too blue, gradually add more orange to bring it back to the desired terracotta hue.
  • The exact shade of terracotta can vary, so feel free to experiment with the proportions of orange and blue to achieve your preferred tone.

Practical Tips

  • Use a Palette Knife: A palette knife can be helpful for mixing colors thoroughly and evenly.
  • Test on a Small Area: Before applying the mixed color to a larger surface, test it on a small area to ensure it matches your expectations.

Color Mixing Chart for Terracotta

Primary Colors Secondary Color Complementary Color Result
Red + Yellow Orange Blue Terracotta

Summary

Creating the terracotta color is a straightforward process that involves mixing orange with a small amount of blue. By carefully adjusting the proportions, you can achieve the perfect terracotta shade for your project.

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