Anybody can benefit from this series on color theory and the tools to use them.
Smashing Magazine has been running a three part series on color. It's called Color Theory for Designers, but really, it's good for anyone with an interest in what color is, how it works, and how to use it creatively. Aside from using web pages (other than the more traditional charts and photos) to illustrate explanations, the series is all solid color theory explained in a way most anyone can understand. I've been waiting (not so patiently) for the third part of the series to come out so I could share it.
Smashing Apps "Tools To Create Perfect Color Combination's" is a good site to find a tool that works best for you. There are several types of tools so you have plenty of choices. A few links have issues; the Daily Color Scheme doesn't have any entries newer than 2006, though the older ones are usable. The Color Wheel Color Calculator goes to a design college site, where you have to hunt around for the calculator and endure pop-up windows inviting you to join the college. A better link is here.
- Color Theory for Designers, Part 1: The Meaning of Color
- Color Theory For Designers, Part 2: Understanding Concepts And Terminology
- Color Theory for Designer, Part 3: Creating Your Own Color Palettes
- 50 Best Free Tools To Create Perfect Color Combinations
- We are Colorblind Patterns for the Color Blind
If you want to keep up with the latest color trends, COLOURlovers is a great resource chock full of information, trends, palettes, patterns, blogs, and articles.
Update: A link to We are Colorblind added to article Feb. 27, 2010
Have fun!
Rhiannon
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