How do I use complementary colours in a painting?

Complementary colours create visual excitement when placed side by side and muted tones when mixed together. Use them for shadows (add a touch of the complement to darken), focal points (small areas of complement draw the eye), and colour vibration (Impressionists used complementary strokes side by side).

What is a split-complementary colour scheme?

Instead of using the direct complement, a split-complementary scheme uses the two colours on either side of the complement (150 and 210 degrees from the base). This gives similar contrast to a complementary scheme but with more nuance and is easier to work with.

Why do complementary colours make grey when mixed?

When you mix two complementary colours, you are effectively combining all three primaries (the base colour plus the two primaries that make up its complement). Three primaries in roughly equal amounts produce a neutral grey or brown, depending on the specific pigments used.

ArtCalcs

Complementary Colour Calculator

Find the complementary, split-complementary and triadic colours for any hue on the colour wheel.

Base Hue (0-360)

0=Red, 60=Yellow, 120=Green, 180=Cyan, 240=Blue, 300=Magenta

How We Calculate This

This calculator finds colour relationships from a base hue using the 360-degree colour wheel.

Formulas

Complementary: Base hue + 180°
Split-complementary 1: Base hue + 150°
Split-complementary 2: Base hue + 210°
Triadic 1: Base hue + 120°
Triadic 2: Base hue + 240°

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.