Color guide
How to use a color wheel
A color wheel helps designers find relationships between hues. It is a starting point for palette structure, not a guarantee that every combination is accessible or brand-safe.
Complementary colors create tension
Complementary colors sit across the wheel from each other. They can create energy, but they often need careful lightness and contrast adjustments for UI.
Analogous colors feel related
Analogous colors sit near each other on the wheel. They are useful for calm, cohesive palettes, but may need neutral and contrast support.
Triadic and tetradic palettes add range
Triadic and tetradic schemes distribute hues around the wheel. They are useful for charts, illustrations, and expressive brand systems when roles are clearly assigned.
Try it in Hue Codex
Use the free tools to test the idea immediately: pick a color, convert it, generate harmonies, build tints and shades, check contrast, and export practical CSS or palette data.
Quick answers
How to use a color wheel FAQ
Should I use every color in a harmony?
No. Treat harmonies as options. A production palette usually needs roles, neutrals, surfaces, text colors, and contrast checks.
Are complementary colors always accessible?
No. Accessibility depends on luminance contrast, not just hue distance.