You make pink with tube color by mixing red and white paint. It's a simple process with a lot of room for variation depending on the shade of pink you desire.
Mixing Red and White: The Basics
The core concept is straightforward:
- Red + White = Pink
However, achieving the exact pink you want involves understanding a few key factors:
Factors Affecting the Shade of Pink
- Red Pigment: Different red pigments (e.g., cadmium red, alizarin crimson) will produce different shades of pink when mixed with white. A warmer red (like cadmium red) will create a warmer pink, while a cooler red (like alizarin crimson) will create a cooler pink.
- White Pigment: The type of white paint also matters. Titanium white is very opaque, while zinc white is more transparent. Titanium white will create a more opaque pink, while zinc white will create a more translucent pink.
- Ratio of Red to White: The amount of red compared to white directly impacts the intensity of the pink. More red results in a darker, more vibrant pink, while more white creates a lighter, pastel pink.
- Other Colors (Optional): A tiny amount of other colors can be added to subtly shift the pink's hue. For example, a touch of yellow can create a peachy pink, while a touch of blue can create a mauve pink.
Steps to Mix the Perfect Pink
- Start with White: Always begin with a larger amount of white paint on your palette.
- Add Red Gradually: Add a small amount of red to the white and mix thoroughly.
- Adjust as Needed: Keep adding red gradually until you achieve your desired shade of pink. Remember, it's easier to darken the pink than it is to lighten it if you add too much red initially.
- Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different reds and whites to see what colors you can create!
Example Ratios and Results
| Red Pigment | White Pigment | Approximate Red:White Ratio | Resulting Pink |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadmium Red Medium | Titanium White | 1:10 | Light, Warm Pink |
| Alizarin Crimson | Zinc White | 1:5 | Medium, Cool Pink |
| Quinacridone Red | Titanium White | 1:20 | Very Light, Bright Pink |
Important Notes:
- Always mix your paints thoroughly to avoid streaks or uneven color.
- Clean your brush between adding different colors.
- Practice mixing different shades of pink to develop your color mixing skills.
- Consider the lighting in which the painting will be displayed, as it can affect how the pink appears.
