Colour Palette Generator

Create harmonious colour palettes from a single base colour using colour theory. Analogous, complementary, triadic, and more. Click any swatch to copy its hex code.

How to Use the Colour Palette Generator

Pick a base colour using the colour picker or type a hex code. Then choose a harmony mode — the generator will calculate complementary colours based on colour theory. Click any swatch in the palette to copy its hex code. Use the code output panel to grab CSS variables, Tailwind config, or SCSS variables for your project.

Understanding Colour Harmonies

Analogous

Analogous colours sit next to each other on the colour wheel. They create smooth, harmonious combinations that feel natural and cohesive. These palettes work well for backgrounds, branding, and designs that need a calm, unified feel.

Complementary

Complementary colours sit directly opposite each other on the colour wheel. They create maximum contrast and visual energy. Use one colour as the dominant and the other as an accent for call-to-action buttons, highlights, and elements that need to stand out.

Triadic

Triadic schemes use three colours equally spaced around the colour wheel (120° apart). They offer strong contrast while maintaining balance. Triadic palettes feel vibrant and dynamic without the visual tension of complementary schemes.

Split Complementary

Instead of using the direct complement, this scheme uses the two colours adjacent to the complement. It provides similar contrast to complementary but with less tension, making it easier to work with while still feeling lively.

Monochromatic

Monochromatic palettes use variations of a single hue — different lightness and saturation levels of the same colour. These are the easiest to work with and always look cohesive. They're excellent for minimal designs and data visualisations.

Tips for Choosing Colours

Start with a colour that reflects the mood you want — warm tones (red, orange, yellow) feel energetic and inviting, while cool tones (blue, green, purple) feel calm and professional. Use the 60-30-10 rule: 60% of your design in the primary colour, 30% secondary, and 10% accent. Always check contrast ratios for accessibility — text should have at least 4.5:1 contrast against its background for WCAG AA compliance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a colour palette?
A colour palette is a curated set of colours used together in a design project. A well-chosen palette creates visual harmony, establishes mood, and ensures consistency. Most palettes contain 3–7 colours including primary, secondary, and accent colours.
What are complementary colours?
Complementary colours sit directly opposite each other on the colour wheel (e.g. blue and orange, red and green). They create maximum contrast, making them ideal for call-to-action elements and designs that need visual energy.
What are analogous colours?
Analogous colours sit adjacent on the colour wheel (e.g. blue, blue-green, green). They create harmonious, soothing palettes that feel naturally cohesive. Great for backgrounds and branding.
How many colours should a palette have?
Most design systems use 3 to 7 colours. The 60-30-10 rule is a reliable starting point: 60% primary colour, 30% secondary, and 10% accent. This creates clear visual hierarchy.
What is a triadic colour scheme?
A triadic scheme uses three colours equally spaced around the colour wheel (120° apart), such as red, yellow, and blue. These palettes are vibrant and balanced with strong contrast while maintaining harmony.
How do I choose colours for a website?
Start with a primary colour that reflects your brand or desired mood. Use a colour harmony (this tool helps) to find companions. Ensure sufficient contrast for accessibility — aim for at least 4.5:1 contrast ratio for text against backgrounds.