Artist Tip: Mixing Three or Four Colours

Mixing Too Many Colours? Hello, Mud.

When it comes to mixing pigments, less really is more.

Let’s exclude white from this rule — we’re talking about pigment colours only. If you mix more than three or four pigments together in significant amounts, you will almost always end up in the same place:

Mud.

You can technically mix every colour on your palette into one pile. But in practice, the main body of your mix — at least 90% of it — should come from no more than three or four pigments.

Small Additions Make a Big Difference

Tiny amounts of additional colour can completely shift a mix. That’s why it’s important to:

• Start with a small sample mix

• Add only very small amounts at a time

• Mix thoroughly

• Assess before adding more

If the colour isn’t heading in the right direction, scrape it off and start again. It’s not wasted paint until it goes onto your canvas where it shouldn’t be.

Use a Palette Knife, Not a Brush

Always mix with a palette knife (or trowel), not a brush.

A brush hides paint deep in its bristles, making it impossible to control how much you’re really adding. Even after you think you’ve finished mixing, more paint can seep out and alter your colour unexpectedly.

With a knife, you stay in control.

Train Your Eye

Over time, you’ll start analysing colours automatically. You’ll look at a subject and begin to see the individual pigments that make it up. It becomes second nature — sometimes even when you’re trying to switch off!

Learning to limit your mixes and truly understand your pigments is one of the fastest ways to improve your painting.

Happy Painting,

Ron Gribble