One of my earliest blog entries, all the way back in May 2004, was about a favourite technique for creating colour palettes. It was a technique which I’d used for years, even then. Now I have a new take on creating colour palettes, it’s time to revisit that topic.
I used Macromedia Fireworks in 2004 (and for years after,) then—because it’s hard to teach an old dog new tricks—I used Sketch in exactly the same way until recently.
Sketch now simplifies my process because, unlike Fireworks, it enables me to add multiple background fills to any element. This means I no longer need the black and white base layers and can use single square per tint.
My favourite technique has served me very well for years, but I did learn along the way that essentially adding black and white to my colours would often make them appear a little flat.
Recently, I’ve been experimenting with a new technique using multiple background and blending modes—specifically Multiply and Screen—in Sketch and I have to say, I like the results a lot better. Here’s how my improved technique works to create a series of gradually darker tones from a single colour:
To create a series of lighter colours, switch the blending mode from Multiply to Screen.
I find the colours I create using blending modes are richer than those using my original technique.
There you have it; a quick but useful update to creating colour palettes. Have some fun with it and a happy Monday.
Working with clients for over 25 years