How do you make turquoise with acrylic paint?

November 23, 2025 · caitlin

Creating the perfect shade of turquoise with acrylic paint involves mixing specific colors in the right proportions. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you achieve a vibrant turquoise every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, mastering this color mix can enhance your painting skills.

What Colors Make Turquoise?

To create turquoise, you need to mix blue and green, with a touch of white to lighten the hue. Here’s a simple formula:

Base Color: Blue (preferably a bright blue like cyan)
Secondary Color: Green
Lightener: White

Steps to Mix Turquoise with Acrylic Paint

Start with Blue: Place a small amount of blue paint on your palette. This will be the dominant color in your mix.
Add Green Gradually: Slowly add green paint to the blue, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Continue until you achieve a teal-like color.
Lighten with White: Introduce a small amount of white paint to the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the characteristic brightness of turquoise.
Adjust as Needed: If the color is too dark, add more white. For a greener hue, incorporate more green.

Tips for Perfecting Your Turquoise

Experiment with Proportions: The exact ratio of blue to green can vary based on personal preference. Start with a 2:1 ratio of blue to green and adjust as needed.
Use Quality Paints: High-quality acrylic paints tend to have more vibrant pigments, resulting in a richer turquoise.
Test on Paper: Before applying to your canvas, test the color on a piece of paper to see how it dries.

Why Is Turquoise Popular in Art?

Turquoise is a versatile color often associated with tranquility and sophistication. It can evoke feelings of calmness, making it a popular choice for landscapes, seascapes, and abstract art. Its ability to complement warm and cool tones makes it a staple in many artists’ palettes.

Practical Applications of Turquoise

Seascapes: Use turquoise to depict tropical waters.
Abstract Art: Combine with metallics for a modern look.
Interior Art: Integrate turquoise in pieces intended for home decor to add a pop of color.

Common Questions About Mixing Turquoise

How Do You Make Turquoise Brighter?

To make turquoise brighter, add more white to the mix. Be cautious, as too much white can dilute the vibrancy. You can also incorporate a small amount of yellow to enhance brightness.

Can You Create Turquoise with Other Paint Types?

Yes, you can make turquoise with other types of paint, such as oil or watercolor. The mixing process is similar, but the drying time and color intensity may vary.

What If My Turquoise Looks Too Green or Blue?

If your turquoise appears too green, add more blue. Conversely, if it’s too blue, incorporate more green. Always adjust in small increments to avoid overcompensating.

How Can I Ensure Consistent Color in My Artwork?

To maintain a consistent turquoise shade throughout a painting, mix a large batch initially. Store any excess in an airtight container to prevent drying.

Is Turquoise a Warm or Cool Color?

Turquoise is generally considered a cool color, though it can have warm undertones depending on the green-to-blue ratio.