By Chromatics, more commonly known as colors, influence us way beyond we realize. Did you know that color perception influences 90% of all rapid purchasing decisions? In fact, it’s important to think carefully about the colors you choose in your design layout. Although monochromatic design schemes have a reputation for being dull or too basic, when used correctly, they can have a visually striking impact leading to a strong brand identity.
With handy tips, a FREE tool, and interesting examples below, let’s get in-depth into how to effortlessly use monochromatic colors in design. So that by the end of the post, you won’t be a beginner anymore! Let’s get started.
What is Monochrome?
“A monochromatic artwork is one that has only one color.” – The Tate Art Museum
That makes perfect sense, particularly when you consider the word’s Greek roots:
- “Mono” means One.
- “Chrome” means Color.
However, it isn’t as straightforward as “one color.” You’d be able to recognize the numerous variations of a single hue. Monochrome colors are all the varieties of a single hue – the tints, shades, and tones. Additionally, a monochromatic color scheme consists of brighter and darker shades of the same base color or hue. If you’re still confused, let’s brush up on our color theory first.
How Is Monochromatic Color Scheme Created?
Let’s start and simplify the basics in case you need a refresher or are completely new to the color scheme.
- Hue simply means “color.“ When it comes to paint color, painters conceive of “hue” as the purest form of a pigment. So, think of it that way – a pure color before it’s affected by shade, tint, and tone.
- Tint lightens the color. Tints are made by mixing white to a color.
- Shade is the process of adding black to a color to make it darker.
- Tone is the vibrancy of a hue. They are altered by the addition of gray. A color with more gray will have a duller tone than the original hue, whereas a color with less gray will have a more saturated tone.
Related: 7 Tips For Creating The Perfect Cohesive Color Palette
Components of Monochromatic Schemes: Hue, Tint, Shade & Tone
Each section of the color wheel indicates a single hue’s color family. Moreover, each variant of the hue has tiny variations, all of which make up a monochromatic color pallete.
Each of your elements will have a spectrum of tints, hues, and tones based on a single base color when applying this scheme for monochromatic design. Because each color has several variants, you can be creative and express yourself in any manner you choose with a monochromatic scheme, from bright and dramatic to cool and subdued.
Brands That Use Monotone Colors
1: Coca-Cola Packaging
2: PayPal Logo
3: National Geographic Website
4: Starbucks Branding
Related: What Is Color Harmony & Why You Need To Know About It
5: Kylie Skin Care
How To Use Monochromatic Color Scheme Ideas In Graphic Design
Use hundreds of beautiful FREE templates or start from scratch to create- content, brand assets, and videos effortlessly. Then, publish with one click to reach your customers wherever they are.
Related: Square Color Scheme & Everything You Need To Know About It