Color schemes that use different shades and tints of a single hue are monochromatic color schemes. Monochromatic color schemes create visual interest through nuances in lightness and saturation rather than through contrasting hues.
What is a monochromatic color scheme?
A monochromatic color scheme is made up of different shades, tones, and tints of a single hue. The term “monochromatic” comes from the Greek words “mono” meaning one and “chroma” meaning color. So a monochromatic color scheme literally uses just one color.
This does not mean that a monochromatic color scheme only uses one exact color. Rather, it means using variations of a single hue. This is achieved by modifying the hue’s saturation and brightness.
For example, a monochromatic blue color scheme would use various shades of blue. It may use a deep navy, a mid-tone sky blue, a pale powder blue, and white tinted with blue. All of these colors are variations of blue.
Why use a monochromatic color scheme?
There are several reasons monochromatic color schemes are an effective choice:
- They create a soothing, calm feel since there is little contrast between colors.
- The colors complement each other perfectly since they are all the same hue.
- They are extremely easy to create since colors don’t need to be matched or coordinated.
- They allow creativity and variety through lightness, darkness, and saturation.
Monochromatic color schemes are popular for minimalist designs, as accent colors, and for branding purposes. Using different shades of a single color can create familiarity and cohesion.
How to create a monochromatic color scheme
Follow these steps to create your own monochromatic color scheme:
- Choose your base hue. Select a color you want to be the foundation of your scheme.
- Identify tints of your hue. Tints are lighter variations created by adding white to the base color. Add differing amounts of white to create light tints.
- Identify shades of your hue. Shades are darker variations created by adding black to the base color. Add differing amounts of black to create dark shades.
- Identify tones of your hue. Tones are variations created by adding gray to the base color. Add differing amounts of gray to create mid-range tones.
- Optionally add complementary accents. Consider sparingly using the complementary color of your base hue for visual interest.
Be sure to test your colors to ensure they work well together. Having 5-8 variations of your hue is ideal for most monochromatic schemes.
Examples of monochromatic color schemes
Here are some examples of popular monochromatic color schemes:
Different shades of blue
Blue color schemes might use:
- Navy blue
- Royal blue
- Sky blue
- Baby blue
- Light blue
This scheme has a soothing, cool effect. The darker blues can be used for headers and the lighter tints used for background colors.
Shades of red
A red monochromatic scheme may utilize:
- Burgundy
- Maroon
- Brick red
- Coral
- Salmon
This monochromatic scheme has a warm, vibrant look. The darker reds work well for bold accents alongside soft pinkish hues.
Tints and tones of green
Green monochromatic palettes might include:
- Forest green
- Lime green
- Sage green
- Seafoam green
- Pale green
The natural look of greens evokes growth, harmony, and renewal. Dark greens pair nicely with light tints.
Shades of purple
A purple monochromatic scheme can utilize:
- Eggplant
- Wisteria
- Lilac
- Lavender
- Thistle
Purples have a mystical, spiritual vibe. Combining darker and lighter shades creates visual depth.
Tips for using monochromatic color schemes
Follow these tips when working with monochromatic palettes:
- Use a 60-30-10 ratio. Have one color dominate at 60%, a secondary color at 30%, and accent colors at 10%.
- Watch contrast levels. Ensure lighting allows all colors to be visible.
- Add textures. Layering different textures adds visual interest.
- Include neutrals. Tints of black, white, and gray can act as neutral anchors.
- Use sparingly. Monochromatic palettes can become boring without thoughtful composition.
Conclusion
Monochromatic color schemes offer a simple way to create harmony in designs. By modifying a single hue using shades, tones, and tints, a variety of colors can be produced. Monochromatic palettes are easy to work with but should be carefully composed to avoid monotony.
Thoughtfully employing different saturations and lightness levels of a single shade allows for depth, contrast, and visual interest – all while remaining soothing and cohesive.
