Colouring of Polymers and Composites - Introduction to Polymeric Composites with Rice Hulls - page 103

8.1.5 Tertiary Colours
An additional six tertiary colours are created by mixing primary and secondary
colours.
8.1.6 Warm and Cool Colours
The colour circle can be divided into warm and cool colours. These colour aspects
become important if composite materials are used indoors in applications such as
interior décor, facades, panelling, ceilings and in automobile interiors. Warm colours
are vivid and energetic and tend to expand in space, whereas cool colours exude an
impression of calm and create a soothing effect. White, black and gray are considered
to be neutral.
8.1.7 Tints, Shades and Tones
Tints, shades and tones are often used incorrectly, although they are simple colour
concepts. If a colour is made lighter by adding white, the result is called a tint . If
black is added, the darker version is called a shade . If grey is added, the result is a
different tone .
8.1.8 Colour Harmonies
I will describe some basic techniques for creating colour harmonies. Complementary
colour schemes are colours that are opposite to each other on the colour wheel
(e.g., red and green). The high contrast of complementary colours creates a vibrant
look, especially if used at full saturation. The colour scheme must be managed well
so that it is not jarring. Complementary colour schemes are difficult to use in large
amounts but work well if you want something to stand out.
Analogous colour schemes are often found in nature and are harmonious and pleasing
to the eye. One must ensure that there is sufficient contrast if choosing an analogous
colour scheme. Choose one colour to dominate, a second to support, and a third
along with black, white or grey as an accent.
Triadic colour schemes use colours that are evenly spaced around the colour wheel.
These colour schemes tend to be quite vibrant, even if you use pale or unsaturated
versions of colour hues. To use a triadic harmony successfully, the colours should be
carefully balanced. For example, use one colour to dominate and two others for accent.