Colors are more than just visual stimuli; they evoke emotions, create impressions, and enhance the aesthetics of leather creations. This guide will take you through the fundamental concepts of color mixing, essential for anyone looking to perfect their leather crafting skills.
Understanding Color
As Claude Monet famously said, “Color is my day-long obsession, joy, and torment.” Color is a visual perception created by the nerve signals that the retina photoreceptors send to the brain when they absorb light of certain wavelengths and intensity. This phenomenon forms the basis of the visible spectrum.
The Basics of Color Mixing
The Color Wheel
The color wheel, an abstract illustrative organization of color hues around a circle, shows the relationships between primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. By combining basic colors, you can create any color within the visible spectrum.
The Color Formula
A color formula is a precise recipe that indicates the exact measurement of each basic color needed to achieve the desired tone. Historically, painters would create their colors based on experience. However, the color formula provides a systematic approach, listing the basic colors and their respective proportions.
The Core Colors
Any color can be composed of a mixture of basic colors, primarily red, yellow, and blue. This range can be extended to simplify the mixing procedure. To aid in color formulation, a selection of 10 basic colors from standard options can be used.
We have created a wide range of colors, more than 100 shades. When creating those colors we have decided to give our clients the opportunity of creating those shades by themself.
You can do that with the Color Chart & Color Formula
How to use:
1. Choose the Reference
Start by selecting a color from the color chart, identified by a unique code. This can be your final color or the shade closest to what you want to match.
2. Find the Formula
Refer to the Color Formula sheet to find the formula related to the unique code you chose on the color chart.
3. Pick the Basic Colors
Using the formula, gather the basic colors required for mixing.
4. Measure the Basic Colors
Use a measurement tool, like a graduated cylinder, to measure each basic color accurately.
5. Stir Your Mixing
Stir the mixture thoroughly with a stirring rod until the colors are completely blended.
6. Drop in a New Container
Transfer a small amount of the mixed paint to a new container for easier use.
7. Apply the Edge Paint
Apply the paint to the leather edge.
8. Wait for the Paint to Dry
The paint will appear lighter when wet. Wait for it to dry completely to see the true color, which will be slightly darker.
9. Check Your Shade
Once dry, compare your shade with the color chart. If it matches, you have successfully created your desired color.
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If the initial color isn't perfect, you can fine-tune it using basic color knowledge. Adjust the hue by adding more basic colors, moving your color clockwise or counterclockwise around the color wheel. To change the shade, add black or white to move the color inwards or outwards on the color wheel.
Mastering color mixing is a crucial skill for any leather crafter. With the knowledge of basic colors, the color wheel, and precise color formulas, you can create a vast array of colors to enhance your leather creations. Always remember to document your formulas for future reference.
Happy crafting!
