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How to Paint Burnt Orange?

Published in Color Mixing Guide 3 mins read

Burnt orange paint can be created by mixing red and green, then gradually adding black to darken it.

Understanding Burnt Orange

Burnt orange is a rich, warm color that evokes feelings of autumn and coziness. It's a darker shade of orange, with reddish and brown undertones, making it a versatile color for various applications, from interior design to fashion.

Color Composition

To understand how to create burnt orange, it's essential to know its color composition:

  • Red: Forms the base of burnt orange.
  • Green: Mixed with red to create orange.
  • Black: Added in small amounts to darken the orange and achieve the "burnt" effect.

If you need a precise color representation for your project, burnt orange is made of 80% red, 33% green, and 0% blue.

Creating Burnt Orange Paint

Here's a step-by-step guide to mixing burnt orange paint:

  1. Start with Red: Begin with a primary red paint as your base color.
  2. Add Green: Gradually mix in green paint. The combination of red and green creates orange.
  3. Adjust with Black: To achieve the burnt orange shade, slowly add black paint. It's crucial to add black in very small increments, as it can quickly overpower the other colors.
  4. Test and Refine: Test the color on a scrap piece of paper or canvas and adjust as needed. You may need to add more red, green, or black to get the exact shade you desire.

Tips for Mixing Burnt Orange

  • Use Quality Paints: High-quality paints will provide better color saturation and mixing results.
  • Mix Thoroughly: Ensure the paints are thoroughly mixed to avoid streaks or uneven color.
  • Start Small: Begin with small amounts of each color and gradually increase as needed.
  • Document Your Mix: Keep track of the proportions of each color you use so you can replicate the exact shade later.

Using Burnt Orange in Different Mediums

Medium Considerations
Acrylics Mixes easily, dries quickly; add water or medium to adjust consistency.
Oils Blends smoothly, longer drying time; use linseed oil or other mediums to control drying and texture.
Watercolors Layer colors to achieve depth; add water to lighten or spread the color.
Digital Art Use the RGB values (80% red, 33% green, 0% blue) for precise color matching.

Applications of Burnt Orange

Burnt orange is a popular choice in various applications:

  • Interior Design: Adds warmth and character to rooms, often used in accent walls, furniture, and decor.
  • Fashion: A trendy color for clothing and accessories, especially in autumn collections.
  • Branding: Creates a sense of energy and warmth, used in logos and marketing materials.
  • Art: A versatile color for paintings, adding depth and richness to compositions.