How to Make Violet Color: A Guide to Mixing Your Own Shades

Violet is such a beautiful, mysterious colour—but getting the perfect shade isn’t always easy. I’ve been experimenting with different combinations, and in this post, I’ll show you exactly how to mix vibrant violets along with a few important tips for working with purples. You can watch the video below for the full process, then scroll down for all the details.

How to mix VIOLET video tutorial with step-by-step instructions

Two Ways to Create Violet

Method 1: Ultramarine Blue and Crimson Lake

To achieve a captivating violet hue, let's start with a combination of ultramarine blue and crimson lake. By mixing two parts of blue with one part of red, we can create a rich base color. Additionally, adding a touch of white will lighten the shade. Let's begin by swatching this dark violet hue.  

Various Methods of mixing Violets

Method 2:Ultramarine Blue and Magenta

Alternatively, we can mix violet using a different approach. For this method, we will use ultramarine blue and magenta. Again, the ratio is two parts blue to a touch of magenta. This combination yields a shade of violet that is quite similar to the one obtained with crimson lake. Adding white to this mixture will also create lighter tones..

Comparing the Results

Both methods produce similar violet shades, which can be used interchangeably in your artwork. When mixed with white, these colors offer comparable tones. To better understand the range of violets, let's create a color chart. Starting with ultramarine blue, we gradually incorporate crimson lake, observing how the color transitions from blue to violet and eventually to magenta. Adding white further lightens the violet shades.

Understanding Violet and Purple

Before we proceed, it's important to clarify the distinction between violet and purple. In the natural world, violet is part of the visible light spectrum and possesses a specific wavelength. Purple, on the other hand, is considered a man-made color and lacks a distinct wavelength. As artists, we recognize and utilize both violet and purple as distinct colors, each serving a purpose in our paintings.

Violet is a natural colour

Exploring Different Shades

While there are numerous shades of purples and violets, such as lavender, plum, royal violet, and more, it's essential to understand that these variations are simply combinations of blues and reds in different proportions. Don't be overwhelmed by the multitude of shades. In a separate video, I demonstrate how to mix purple and magenta colors, which you can watch for further insights and improved color mixing skills.

That's it!

Congratulations! You've learned how to create beautiful violet colors through two different methods. By combining ultramarine blue with either crimson lake or magenta, you can achieve rich violet shades. Remember to experiment with the addition of white to create lighter tones. Just keep in mind that violet and purple have distinct characteristics, and they are essential colors in an artist's palette. Don't be discouraged by the variety of shades available; they are merely combinations of blues and reds. If you found this guide helpful, please consider liking and sharing it to help others. Happy painting!

Want to take your colour mixing skills even further? I’ve put together a free Acrylic Colour Mixing Guide packed with easy recipes, swatches, and tips to help you create any shade you need. Download it now and start mixing colours with confidence!

Download Guide for Free