Color Palette Generator
Generate harmonious color palettes from any base color.
About This Color Palette Generator
This free color palette generator creates harmonious color schemes based on color theory. Choose a base color and a palette type to instantly generate a cohesive set of colors for your next design project, website, or illustration. All calculations use HSL color manipulation for accurate, visually pleasing results.
How to Use
- Pick a base color using the color picker or type a HEX value directly.
- Select a palette type: Complementary, Triadic, Analogous, Split-Complementary, Tetradic, or Monochromatic.
- View the generated palette as color swatches below the controls.
- Click any swatch to copy its HEX value to your clipboard.
- Use the "Random" button to explore new base colors quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a complementary color scheme?
A complementary scheme uses two colors that sit directly opposite each other on the color wheel (180° apart). This creates high contrast and vibrant energy, making it ideal for call-to-action elements and bold designs.
When should I use an analogous palette?
Analogous palettes use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They produce a serene, comfortable design and work well when you want a unified look without strong contrast, such as in backgrounds or illustrations.
What is the difference between triadic and tetradic schemes?
A triadic scheme uses three colors equally spaced on the color wheel (120° apart), while a tetradic scheme uses four colors spaced at 90° intervals. Tetradic schemes offer more variety but can be harder to balance — it helps to let one color dominate and use the others as accents.
Can I use these palettes for commercial projects?
Absolutely. Colors themselves are not copyrightable, so you can freely use any palette generated here in personal or commercial work without attribution.