What colors do I mix to make burgundy with watercolors?

Burgundy is a rich, deep red color often associated with elegance and sophistication. To achieve burgundy with watercolors, you’ll need to mix specific colors in the right proportions. Here’s a quick guide to creating this beautiful hue.

How to Mix Burgundy with Watercolors?

To make burgundy, start with a base of red and gradually add blue and a touch of brown. This combination will deepen the red into the desired burgundy shade. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Start with Red: Use a vibrant red as your primary base color. Cadmium red or alizarin crimson are excellent choices.
2. Add Blue: Introduce a small amount of blue, such as ultramarine or cobalt blue. Mix slowly and observe the color change.
3. Incorporate Brown: To add depth, mix in a tiny bit of brown, like burnt umber or raw sienna. This step is crucial for achieving the rich tone characteristic of burgundy.

Adjust the proportions based on your preference for a lighter or darker burgundy.

What Colors Make Burgundy in Watercolors?

Primary Colors Needed

• Red: The dominant color in burgundy.
• Blue: Adds depth and a cooler tone.
• Brown: Provides richness and warmth.

Mixing Ratios

• Red (60-70%): Start with a large portion of red.
• Blue (20-30%): Add blue gradually to avoid overpowering the red.
• Brown (5-10%): Use sparingly to deepen and warm the mix.

Experiment with these ratios to perfect your burgundy shade.

Tips for Mixing Burgundy Watercolors

• Test on Scrap Paper: Before applying to your artwork, test the color mix on scrap paper to ensure you achieve the desired shade.
• Use a Palette Knife: For a smoother blend, use a palette knife to mix the colors thoroughly.
• Adjust with Water: If the color is too intense, dilute it with water to achieve a softer tone.

Practical Examples of Burgundy in Art

Burgundy is popular in various art forms, from traditional paintings to modern digital art. Here are a few examples of how artists use burgundy:

• Portraits: Adds a regal touch to clothing or backgrounds.
• Landscapes: Enhances sunsets or autumn scenes.
• Abstract Art: Provides a bold statement when used with contrasting colors.

People Also Ask

What is the RGB value for burgundy?

The RGB value for burgundy is approximately (128, 0, 32). This combination reflects its deep red and slightly purplish tone.

Can I make burgundy with only primary colors?

Yes, you can create burgundy by mixing primary colors: red, blue, and a touch of yellow (or brown) to adjust the tone. Start with red, add blue for depth, and use yellow or brown sparingly to achieve the richness.

How do I lighten burgundy in watercolor?

To lighten burgundy, add more water to your mix. Alternatively, introduce a small amount of white watercolor, but be cautious as this can change the shade to pinkish.

What is the difference between maroon and burgundy?

While both are deep reds, maroon has more brown undertones, whereas burgundy contains purple tones due to the addition of blue.

Can I use burgundy for skin tones?

Burgundy can be used in skin tones to add shadows or highlights, especially in portraits that require a warm, rich undertone.

Summary

Mixing burgundy with watercolors involves combining red, blue, and a touch of brown. By adjusting the proportions, you can achieve the perfect shade of burgundy for your artistic needs. Whether you’re painting a portrait or an abstract piece, understanding how to mix colors effectively enhances your artwork’s depth and richness. For further exploration, consider experimenting with different watercolor techniques or exploring other color combinations.