How to Use Analogous Color Schemes for Card Making

One of the easiest ways to create beautiful and harmonious handmade cards is by using an analogous color scheme. It’s perfect for creating cohesive, eye-pleasing designs. If you’re looking for a fresh way to add a professional touch to your cards, then understanding colors and color theory is something you’ll want to master!

What Are Analogous Colors?

Analogous colors are groups of colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They naturally complement one another, making them ideal for creating smooth, unified designs. The first thing you need to get your hands on is a color wheel! Stampin’ Up! has a fabulous new tool called the color coach. You can learn more HERE. However, you can also find the color wheel and information about color theory in the Stampin’ Up! Annual Catalog on page 132-133.

Let’s talk about how to use the Color Coach to create an analogous color scheme. To build an analogous scheme, select a primary color group from the Color Coach. Then, look for color groups which are next to the primary color.

For the cards I am sharing today, I chose one color from each of these primary color groups: Blue, Blue-Violet and Violet. On the color wheel, Pool Party comes from the Blue color group. Misty Moonlight comes from the Blue-Violet group and Highland Heather comes from the Violet group.

Be sure to watch the video see the use of this Color Coach in action!

How to Use Analogous Colors in Card Making

Once you have selected your colors, you are ready to create! Pull out some coordinating cardstock, ink pads, embellishments, and patterned papers using the 3 colors in the analogous scheme. Stampin’ Up! color families make this step a breeze!

My analogous color scheme includes Pool Party, Misty Moonlight and Highland Heather. Analogous colors look amazing when paired with texture especially the emboss resist technique! Just a little bit of ink blending with all 3 colors across the heat embossed snowflakes creates such a beautiful look. Be sure to watch the video and grab the tutorial below.

You can play around with the intensity of your colors too. Use lighter tones in the background for a more subtle look. Use darker tones for greetings and layers on the cards. The possibilities are endless! Just play around with the colors, layers and textures!

Tutorial and Supplies

Incorporating analogous color schemes into your card making is a simple yet powerful way to take your designs to the next level. Have fun experimenting with colors and remember there’s no wrong way to create!

Ready to try it out? Feel free to download the printable tutorial. The tutorial contains a list of supplies and instructions for creating the cards I shared with you today.

And feel free to share your creations with me on social media by using the hashtag #stamptasticdesigns—I’d love to see what you come up with! Have a fun and creative day my friends! ~ Lynn