There are six classic colour harmonies – monochromatic, analogous, complementary, triadic, split complement, double split complement.
1. Monochromatic – variations of one hue created by using tints and/or tones of the one colour or pigment
Effect: calm, reassuring, quieting, elegant
Personality: supportive, calm
2. Analagous – colours that are closely related, such as Blue, Blue Green and Green. There can be three, four or five colours that are adjacent on the colour wheel. Any tints and/ or tones of these can be used. Only one primary hue is in the grouping.
Effect : expected, stable, interesting, pleasant, slightly more energy than monochromatic
Personality : friendly
3. Complementary – colours directly opposite each other on the colour wheel
Effect : dramatic, energetic
Personality : vibrant, with some intensity
4. Triadic – any three colours at equal points on the colour wheel.
Effect : playful, balanced
Personality : out-going, fun-loving
5. Split complements – the use of colours on each side of one of the complements- remember that the complements are left out
Effect : unexpected, interesting because of the seemingly unbalance because of two to one warm and cool or vice versa
Personality : multi-faceted, adventurous
6. Double-split-complements – the use of colours on both sides of the complements (leaving out the complement)
Effect : attention grabbing, creative, vibrant, active
Personality : multi-faceted, creative, courageous, adventurous, comple