Paint Mixing Calculator
Calculate paint color mixing ratios to achieve target colors from primary paints. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Formula
Mixed Color = Sum(Ratio × Pigment RGB) / Sum(Ratios)
This calculator uses RGB color space approximation to estimate mixing ratios. Real paint mixing is subtractive (pigments absorb light), while this uses a simplified model. Results are approximate starting points — always mix small test amounts first.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Mixing Saddle Brown
Problem: Mix saddle brown (#8B4513) from basic palette colors.
Solution: Start with Burnt Sienna as the base (closest single pigment)\nAdd a small amount of Ivory Black to deepen\nAdd a touch of Cadmium Red for warmth\nRatio approximately: 6 parts Burnt Sienna, 2 parts Black, 1 part Red\nAdjust with Yellow Ochre if needed for a warmer tone
Result: ~67% Burnt Sienna + 22% Black + 11% Red
Example 2: Creating Sage Green
Problem: Mix sage green (#87AE73) from available colors.
Solution: Start with Sap Green as the base\nAdd Titanium White to lighten to sage level\nAdd a tiny bit of Yellow Ochre for warmth\nRatio: 4 parts Sap Green, 5 parts White, 1 part Yellow Ochre\nSage green is a muted, desaturated green — the white does the heavy lifting
Result: ~40% Sap Green + 50% White + 10% Yellow Ochre
Frequently Asked Questions
How does paint mixing work?
Paint mixing follows subtractive color theory — each pigment absorbs (subtracts) certain wavelengths of light and reflects others. When you mix two colors, the result absorbs wavelengths from both paints, producing a darker, less saturated color. This is different from light mixing (additive), where combining colors gets brighter. Key principles: Red + Yellow = Orange, Blue + Yellow = Green, Red + Blue = Purple. Adding white creates tints, adding black creates shades, and adding the complementary color creates muted, earth-tone variations.
How do I estimate paint coverage for a room?
One gallon covers approximately 350-400 square feet per coat. Calculate wall area by multiplying perimeter by ceiling height, then subtract window and door openings. Most jobs need two coats, so divide total area by 175-200 per gallon. Add 10% for touch-ups and waste.
Is my data stored or sent to a server?
No. All calculations run entirely in your browser using JavaScript. No data you enter is ever transmitted to any server or stored anywhere. Your inputs remain completely private.
Does Paint Mixing Calculator work offline?
Once the page is loaded, the calculation logic runs entirely in your browser. If you have already opened the page, most calculators will continue to work even if your internet connection is lost, since no server requests are needed for computation.
Is Paint Mixing Calculator free to use?
Yes, completely free with no sign-up required. All calculators on NovaCalculator are free to use without registration, subscription, or payment.
How do I get the most accurate result?
Enter values as precisely as possible using the correct units for each field. Check that you have selected the right unit (e.g. kilograms vs pounds, meters vs feet) before calculating. Rounding inputs early can reduce output precision.