what color does purple and yellow make when mixed

What Color Does Purple and Yellow Make When Mixed?

Color mixing is a fascinating aspect of visual perception. When it comes to combining colors, the blend of purple and yellow often sparks curiosity.

What happens when these two vibrant hues converge? In this article, we delve into the captivating realm of color theory to explore the outcome of mixing purple and yellow.

Through an accessible and concise approach, we aim to unravel the mystery behind this intriguing color combination.

Join us on this journey as we uncover the result of this magical union and shed light on the science and artistry of color mixing.

So, what color does purple and yellow make when mixed? Let’s find out.

What Color Does Purple and Yellow Make When Mixed?

When purple and yellow are mixed together, they typically create the color brown. The resulting shade of brown can vary depending on the specific shades and proportions of purple and yellow used in the mixing process. Experimentation and observation are key to achieving the desired shade of brown.

Purple and Yellow: Understanding the Colors

Purple

Purple, a mesmerizing color that blends the calm stability of blue with the fiery energy of red, has captivated humans for centuries.

Its unique position at the end of the visible color spectrum gives it a sense of mystery and spirituality.

The varying shades of purple, from deep royal purples to soft lavenders, each have their own distinct qualities.

Purple possesses a perfect balance between warm and cool tones due to its composition of equal parts red and blue.

This combination results in a color that can evoke a range of emotions, such as power, luxury, creativity, and spirituality.

The depth and intensity of purple can vary greatly, allowing for a wide array of visual expressions.

Yellow

Yellow, the color of sunshine and happiness, radiates warmth and positivity. It is associated with feelings of joy, optimism, and intellect.

Positioned between green and orange on the color wheel, yellow is created by blending equal parts of green and red light.

Yellow has a remarkable ability to attract attention and evoke a sense of energy and cheerfulness.

From bright lemon yellows to rich golden hues, yellow offers a wide spectrum of shades to explore.

It is often utilized to convey happiness, playfulness, and a sense of vibrancy in various contexts.

Color Mixing Basics

Before we dive into the enchanting realm of purple and yellow mixing, let’s explore the fundamental concepts of color mixing.

This includes primary colors, additive and subtractive mixing methods.

Primary colors and their role in mixing

Understanding color mixing requires knowledge of primary colors. Primary colors are the building blocks of all other colors and cannot be created by mixing other colors.

In traditional color theory, the primary colors are red, blue, and yellow. These colors have unique properties and are essential in the process of color mixing.

Additive and subtractive color mixing

There are two primary methods of color mixing: additive and subtractive. Additive color mixing is used in situations where colors are produced by combining different sources of light.

In this method, the primary colors are red, green, and blue (RGB). By varying the intensity of each primary color, a wide range of colors can be created.

Subtractive color mixing, on the other hand, is used when mixing physical pigments or dyes. 

The primary colors in subtractive color mixing are cyan, magenta, and yellow (CMY). When these three colors are combined at full intensity, they create a neutral gray or black.

By selectively absorbing or subtracting certain wavelengths of light, different colors are produced.

How colors interact and combine

When colors are combined, they interact in different ways depending on the method of color mixing.

In additive mixing, colors combine to produce new colors through the process of light superposition.

For example, if you mix green and red coloring, it results to yellow light. The more colors are added, the closer the resulting color moves towards white.

In subtractive mixing, colors interact through the absorption and reflection of light. Each pigment or dye absorbs certain wavelengths of light and reflects others.

When two or more pigments are mixed, the resulting color is determined by the wavelengths of light that are absorbed and reflected.

For instance, mixing cyan and yellow pigments absorbs red light and reflects green and blue, resulting in a green color.

What Color Does Purple and Yellow Make When Mixed?

When purple and yellow are mixed together, the resulting color is often a shade of brown or gray.

This outcome may come as a surprise, considering that yellow is the opposite of purple on the color wheel and are considered complementary colors.

The reason for the resulting color being brown or gray lies in the principles of subtractive color mixing. Purple is a combination of red and blue, while yellow is a primary color.

When purple and yellow are mixed, the pigments or dyes in each color begin to absorb and subtract specific wavelengths of light.

Purple contains blue, which absorbs the longer wavelengths of light. While yellow reflects a narrow range of longer wavelengths.

As a result, when the two colors are mixed, the absorption of longer wavelengths intensifies, leading to a decrease in the saturation of the resulting color.

The resulting color, which is a desaturated version of purple and yellow, appears brown or gray due to the absence of vibrant hues.

The exact shade will depend on the proportions of purple and yellow used in the mixture.

It is important to note that the outcome may vary depending on the specific shades of purple and yellow being mixed, as well as the medium in which they are mixed (paints, dyes, etc.). 

Factors such as pigment intensity, and transparency can influence the resulting color.

Purple and Yellow Color Mixing

Additive Color Mixing

In additive color mixing, purple and yellow have distinct behaviors. They combine light sources to create new colors.

Purple mixes blue and red light, while yellow combines green and red. When purple and yellow light intersect, they create a neutral hue or lighter shades.

Resulting color and its properties

The additive mix of purple and yellow combination light produces a pale gray or off-white color.

It evenly stimulates our eye’s cone cells, resulting in high brightness, low saturation, and a cool temperature. The specific shade depends on intensity and proportions.

Subtractive Color Mixing

Subtractive mixing blends physical pigments, absorbing specific wavelengths of light. Purple combines blue and red pigments, while yellow is a primary color. The mix alters light reflection.

Understanding the Color Wheel:

The color wheel helps clarify how purple and yellow interact in subtractive mixing. They are complementary colors positioned opposite each other.

Complementary colors create contrast and enhance vibrancy when combined. Purple and yellow can intensify and accentuate each other in compositions.

This knowledge empowers effective color choices and dynamic interplay in creativity.

Resulting color and its properties

Mixing purple and yellow pigments subtractively results in a desaturated purple with hints of brown or gray.

The shade depends on the specific purple and yellow used. Factors like intensity, transparency, and other colorants influence the result.

How to Mix Purple and Yellow

Mixing purple paint and yellow opens up a world of possibilities for creating captivating colors.

Whether you’re an artist, designer, or simply curious about color exploration, understanding the process of mixing purple and yellow is essential.

Here, we’ll guide you through the steps to achieve the desired hues and shades when blending these vibrant colors.

Step 1: Start with the Right Pigments or Paints

To mix purple and yellow effectively, ensure you have the appropriate pigments or paints on hand.

For purple, you’ll need red and blue pigments or paints. Yellow, being a primary color, can be used as-is. Select high-quality pigments or paints for optimal results.

Step 2: Begin with Small Amounts

To achieve the desired shade, it’s best to start with small amounts of purple and yellow pigments.

This allows for better control over the mixing process and the ability to adjust the color as needed.

Step 3: Mixing Purple

Add a small amount of blue pigment or paint to your mixing palette or container. 

Gradually introduce red pigment or paint while observing the color change. Mix thoroughly between additions.

Continue adding red pigment until the desired shade of purple is achieved. Remember, the proportions of blue and red will determine the specific hue of purple.

Step 4: Mixing Yellow

Place a small amount of yellow pigment or paint on a separate area of your palette or container.

If you want a warmer yellow, it can be used as-is. However, if you prefer a cooler yellow, you can add a touch of green pigment or paint to adjust the tone.

Step 5: Blending Purple and Yellow

Clean your mixing tool (brush or palette knife) to avoid color contamination.

Start by adding a small amount of yellow to the purple mixture. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the colors.

Assess the resulting color and gradually adjust by adding more purple or yellow as needed. Remember to mix thoroughly between additions.

Step 6: Test and Adjust

Throughout the mixing process, it’s crucial to test the resulting color on a separate surface or canvas.

This allows you to assess the shade and make any necessary adjustments. If the color is too vibrant or intense, you can add a small amount of white to desaturate it.

Step 7: Experiment and Explore

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different proportions of purple and yellow.

Varying the amounts of each color will yield a range of hues, from light lilacs to deep violets and warm ochres to vibrant greens. Take the time to explore the possibilities and unleash your creativity.

Remember, practice and observation are key to mastering color mixing.

Each pigment or paint brand may have slight variations in color intensity and undertones, so take note of the specific properties of the materials you’re using.

Embrace the journey of mixing purple and yellow, and let your imagination guide you to a world of unique and captivating colors.

What Color Does Purple and Green Make

When you mix green with purple, the resulting color is a shade of brown or grayish-brown.

The exact hue and intensity of the resulting color depend on the specific shades of purple and green being used.

Purple is a secondary color that is created by combining red and blue. It is often associated with royalty, luxury, and creativity.

Green, on the other hand, is a secondary color created by combining yellow and blue. It is commonly associated with nature, growth, and harmony.

When purple and green are mixed, the complementary nature of these colors comes into play.

Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel, and when mixed, they tend to create neutral or desaturated tones.

In this case, purple and green are complementary colors because they are opposite each other on the color wheel.

The resulting color of mixing purple and green can vary depending on the proportions and specific shades of the colors. However, it is generally a muted brown or grayish-brown.

The intensity of the resulting color may be influenced by the brightness and saturation of the original purple and green shades.

What Color Does Purple and Orange Make

Purple and orange mixed together, create a shade of brown or dark gray. The resulting color’s exact hue and intensity depend on the specific shades of purple and orange used.

Purple is formed by combining red and blue and is associated with royalty and creativity, while orange is created by mixing yellow and red, representing energy and enthusiasm.

The combination of purple and orange results in a desaturated or muted color because they are complementary colors.

Complementary colors are positioned opposite each other on the color wheel, and when mixed, they tend to create a less vibrant tone.

As purple and orange are complementary, their mixture produces a brownish or dark grayish hue. The resulting color’s appearance is affected by the proportions and specific shades of purple and orange used.

Generally, the mixture yields a shade of dark brown color or dark gray. The intensity of the resulting color may vary based on the brightness and saturation of the original purple and orange shades.

What Color Does Yellow and Green Make

When yellow and green are mixed together, the resulting color is a shade of yellow-green or lime green.

The specific shade and intensity of the resulting color depend on the proportions and specific shades of yellow and green being used.

Yellow is a primary color, representing brightness, energy, and joy. Green, on the other hand, is a secondary color created by combining blue and yellow. It is often associated with nature, growth, and harmony.

When yellow and green are mixed, they create a color that is harmonious and reminiscent of the natural world. The resulting color is a vibrant yellow-green or lime green, which has a fresh and lively appearance.

The exact shade of yellow-green or lime green can vary depending on the proportions of yellow and green used.

If more yellow is added, the resulting color will lean towards a brighter and warmer yellow-green. Adding more green will result in a cooler and more muted shade of yellow-green.

Conversely, you can learn how to make lime green with acrylic paint by adding a blue shade.

What Color Does Yellow and Blue Make

When yellow and blue are mixed together, the resulting color is green. Yellow is a primary color that represents brightness and joy, while blue is another primary color associated with tranquility and serenity.

When combined, these two colors create a secondary color known as green.

The specific shade of green that is achieved through the combination of yellow and blue will depend on the specific shades of yellow and blue being used, as well as the proportions in which they are mixed.

However, in general, mixing yellow and blue will produce a range of vibrant greens. If equal parts of yellow and blue are mixed, a bright and balanced green color is typically obtained.

This mixture often resembles the lush green found in nature. However, if more yellow is added, the resulting green will lean towards a warmer or more yellow-green shade.

On the other hand, adding more blue will create a cooler or bluish-green hue.

What Color Does Purple and Red Make

When purple and red are mixed together, the resulting color is a deeper shade of purple or a reddish-purple hue.

The exact color that is achieved through this combination depends on the specific shades of purple and red being used, as well as the proportions in which they are mixed.

Purple is a secondary color that is created by combining red and blue. It is often associated with royalty, luxury, and creativity.

On the other hand, red is a primary color known for its vibrancy, passion, and energy. When purple and red are mixed, the result is a darker color and richer version of purple.

The red tones enhance the depth and intensity of the purple, creating a color that leans more towards the red side of the spectrum while still maintaining the fundamental characteristics of purple.

The resulting shade can vary based on the proportions of purple and red used. If more red is added, the resulting color will have a stronger reddish tone, resembling a deep plum or wine color.

Conversely, if more purple is used, the resulting color will be closer to a dark violet or aubergine shade.

What color does Purple and Teal Make?

Purple and teal mixed together create a complex and intriguing color. The specific result will depend on the proportions used.

Generally, the combination of teal and purple produces a rich and deep shade of blue with purple undertones.

This fusion of colors combines the coolness of teal with the richness of purple, resulting in a unique and captivating hue that can add depth and sophistication to any color palette.

If more purple is used when mixing teal and purple, the resulting color will shift towards a deeper shade of purple with subdued teal undertones.

But, If more teal color mix is used when mixing purple, the resulting color will shift towards a brighter and more vibrant shade of blue with subtle purple undertones.

Shades That Can Come From Mixing Purple and Yellow

When purple and yellow are mixed together, a delightful array of shades can emerge.

The specific combinations and proportions of these vibrant hues give rise to a myriad of captivating colors.

Let’s explore some of the stunning shades that can be achieved through the magical fusion of purple and yellow:

1. Lavender

Shade Name: Lavender

HEX #: #E6E6FA 

RGB Code: 230, 230, 250 

CMYK Code: 8, 8, 0, 2 

Lavender is a pale purple hue with a touch of yellow. It carries a sense of tranquility and elegance.

In the RGB color space, #E6E6FA consists of 90.2% red, 90.2% green, and 98% blue. In the CMYK color space, it consists of 8% cyan, 8% magenta, 0% yellow, and 2% black.

Lavender offers a soothing and ethereal option for various design projects.

2. Mauve

Shade Name: Mauve

HEX #: #E0B0FF

RGB Code: 224, 176, 255

CMYK Code: 12, 31, 0, 0

Mauve is a muted, cool-toned shade that emerges from mixing deeper tones of purple with hints of yellow.

It exudes a sense of sophistication and subtlety. In the RGB color space, #E0B0FF consists of 87.8% red, 69% green, and 100% blue.

In the CMYK color space, it consists of 12% cyan, 31% magenta, 0% yellow, and 0% black. Mauve brings an air of elegance and refinement to various design applications.

3. Olive

Shade Name: Olive

HEX #: #808000

RGB Code: 128, 128, 0

CMYK Code: 60, 50, 100, 20

Olive is an earthy greenish-brown paint that results from blending yellow with a deeper shade of purple.

It evokes a sense of natural beauty and richness. In the RGB color space, #808000 consists of 50.2% red, 50.2% green, and 0% blue.

In the CMYK color space, it consists of 60% cyan, 50% magenta, 100% yellow, and 20% black.

Olive brings warmth and depth to fashion and interior design, often reflecting a connection with nature.

4. Plum

Shade Name: Plum

HEX #: #8E4585

RGB Code: 142, 69, 133

CMYK Code: 0, 51, 6, 44

Plum is a rich and opulent shade that emerges from combining deep purple with a touch of yellow.

It carries a sense of warmth and luxury. In the RGB color space, #8E4585 consists of 55.7% red, 27.1% green, and 52.2% blue.

In the CMYK color space, it consists of 0% cyan, 51% magenta, 6% yellow, and 44% black.

Plum adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to various design projects, exuding a sense of regality.

5. Chartreuse

Shade Name: Chartreuse

HEX #: #DFFF00

RGB Code: 223, 255, 0

CMYK Code: 13, 0, 100, 0

Chartreuse is a vibrant and energetic shade that emerges from mixing a bright yellow with lighter shade of purple.

It radiates a sense of freshness and vitality. In the RGB color space, #DFFF00 consists of 87.5% red, 100% green, and 0% blue.

In the CMYK color space, it consists of 13% cyan, 0% magenta, 100% yellow, and 0% black.

Chartreuse is a bold and attention-grabbing color that adds a pop of vibrancy to various design elements.

It is often used to create impactful accents and focal points, bringing a sense of energy and excitement to design projects.

6. Taupe

Shade Name: Taupe

HEX #: #483C32

RGB Code: 72, 60, 50

CMYK Code: 0, 17, 31, 72

Taupe is a versatile neutral shade that results from mixing equal parts of purple and yellow paint. It serves as a perfect base or complement to other hues.

In the RGB color space, #483C32 consists of 28.2% red, 23.5% green, and 19.6% blue. In the CMYK color space, it consists of 0% cyan, 17% magenta, 31% yellow, and 72% black.

Taupe is a timeless and sophisticated color that adds a sense of elegance and balance to various design applications.

7. Bronze

Shade Name: Bronze

HEX #: #CD7F32

RGB Code: 205, 127, 50

CMYK Code: 0, 38, 76, 20

Bronze is a warm and metallic shade that emerges from blending a deep yellow with a reddish-purple.

It exudes a sense of strength and durability. In the RGB color space, #CD7F32 consists of 80.4% red, 49.8% green, and 19.6% blue.

In the CMYK color space, it consists of 0% cyan, 38% magenta, 76% yellow, and 20% black. 

Bronze adds a touch of richness and earthiness to design projects, often associated with timeless beauty and elegance.

8. Mustard

Shade Name: Mustard

HEX #: #FFDB58

RGB Code: 255, 219, 88

CMYK Code: 0, 14, 66, 0

Mustard is a warm and spicy hue that emerges from blending a deep yellow with a touch of purple. It brings a vibrant and bold energy to fashion and design.

In the RGB color space, #FFDB58 consists of 100% red, 85.9% green, and 34.5% blue. In the CMYK color space, it consists of 0% cyan, 14% magenta, 66% yellow, and 0% black.

Mustard adds a pop of personality and adds a dynamic presence to various design elements, making a bold statement.

Do you know what color goes with mustard yellow? Read on.

Table: Shades Resulting from Yellow and Purple Mixed

Shade NameHEX #RGB CodeCMYK CodeColor
Lavender#E6E6FA230, 230, 2508, 8, 0, 2Color
Mauve#E0B0FF224, 176, 25512, 31, 0, 0Color
Olive#808000128, 128, 060, 50, 100, 20Color
Plum#8E4585142, 69, 1330, 51, 6, 44Color
Chartreuse#DFFF00223, 255, 013, 0, 100, 0Color
Taupe#483C3272, 60, 500, 17, 31, 72Color
Bronze#CD7F32205, 127, 500, 38, 76, 20Color
Mustard#FFDB58255, 219, 880, 14, 66, 0Color

Applications and Symbolism

Purple and yellow find diverse applications in various fields due to their unique characteristics and symbolic meanings.

Let’s explore their uses and symbolism.

Usage in Art and Design

Artists use purple and yellow’s vibrant contrast to create visually striking compositions.

Purple represents creativity and elegance, while yellow symbolizes happiness and optimism.

The combination stimulates senses and creates impactful visual experiences.

Fashion and Interior Design

Purple represents luxury and creativity in fashion. Yellow adds vibrancy and cheerfulness. When combined, they create bold statements and depth in fashion.

In interior design, purple brings luxury, while yellow adds warmth and brightness.

Symbolic Meanings

Purple symbolizes royalty, power, and creativity. It evokes elegance and introspection. Yellow represents happiness, optimism, and enlightenment.

The combination balances regality, creativity, happiness, and positivity.

Cultural and Psychological Interpretations

Cultural interpretations of purple and yellow vary. In some cultures, purple represents mourning, while in others, it symbolizes nobility.

Yellow can symbolize happiness, courage, or caution. Psychologically, purple stimulates imagination, while yellow brings mental clarity and sociability.

FAQs

Does yellow and purple go together?

Yes, yellow and purple can go together beautifully. They are complementary colors, meaning they are opposite each other on the color wheel. The contrast between these vibrant hues creates visual interest and can result in striking color combinations in various contexts, including fashion, art, and design.

What does yellow and purple mean?

Yellow and purple each have their own symbolic meanings. Yellow represents happiness, optimism, and enlightenment, while purple symbolizes royalty, power, and creativity. When combined, they create a harmonious blend of positive energy, regality, and creative inspiration.

When you mix blue with yellow, do you get the color purple?

No, when you mix blue with yellow, you get the color green. Blue and yellow are primary colors, and when combined, they produce tertiary colors, which is blue green. Purple is created by combining the primary colors blue and red.

What does purple and orange make?

When purple and orange are mixed together, they create various shades of lighter brown or a muted, earthy color. The specific resulting color will depend on the specific shades and proportions of purple and orange used in the mixture.

What color does blue and yellow make?

Blue and yellow, when mixed together, create the color green. Blue and yellow are primary colors, and their combination results in a secondary color, which is green. The specific shade of green will depend on the specific shades and proportions of blue and yellow used in the mixture.

Does yellow and gray go together?

Yes, yellow and gray go together quite well. The yellow gray color combination creates a harmonious blend that can be both vibrant and sophisticated. The cheerful nature of yellow complements the neutral and calming tones of gray, resulting in a visually appealing and balanced color palette.

Read More: What Color Does Teal and Red Make When Mixed?

Conclusion

When purple and yellow are mixed together, the resulting color is a shade of brown or gray.

The specific hue and intensity of the resulting color will depend on the different shades of purple and yellow being used.

Purple is a secondary color created by combining red and blue, while yellow is a primary color associated with brightness and warmth.

Mixing these two colors produces a desaturated or muted tone due to their complementary nature.

While individual perceptions and environmental factors can influence the appearance, the typical outcome is a brownish or grayish hue, representing a harmonious blend of purple and yellow.


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