Color Guide
Six notes that match the tools on this site. None of them replace looking at type on a real background.
What Is a HEX Color?
Six hexadecimal digits name red, green, and blue in sRGB. #D98262 is a terracotta used in the initial palette.
Use: paste into CSS. HEX codes explained.
RGB vs HSL
RGB is the stored light. HSL is a more convenient walk around the wheel when generating related colors.
Use: generate in HSL, export HEX. Generator.
Complementary Colors
Opposite hues, about 180 degrees. Strong if both are saturated.
Use: one field, one accent. Scheme types.
Analogous Colors
Neighbors on the wheel. Often calmer than complements.
Use: related surfaces. Worktable relationship diagram.
Triadic Colors
Three families near 120 degrees. Keep two of them quieter.
Use: one dominant hue. Triadic mode.
Color Contrast Basics
Ratio of relative luminances. AA normal 4.5:1, AA large 3:1, AAA normal 7:1, AAA large 4.5:1.