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How to pick a colour palette for a design
Every colour looked great on its own. Put together on the slide, they shout at each other and the text is hard to read. A palette is less about taste than about a few roles: one colour leads, one stays quiet, one points at what matters.
A palette routine, then colour picker apps for Mac. Pretty colours still fail if people cannot read the text. Check contrast between text and background, and do not rely on colour alone to carry meaning.
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Steal from a photo
A photo you like already has colours that sit well together. Pick a few from it with an eyedropper and copy the codes. Compare tools in colour picker apps for Mac.
Give each colour a job
Use the base colour for large areas, a neutral for text and backgrounds and keep the accent rare, so it stands out where it appears. For a brand mark, see how to make a logo for a small business.
Check that it reads
Put real text on each background and test the contrast with a checker. Try the palette on a dark background too if your design has a dark mode.
Save it where you design
Store the codes in your design tool so the same blue shows up everywhere. Compare Canva vs Figma or browse drawing apps.
| Step | What you do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Base colour | the main one | sets the mood |
| 2. Neutral | for text and space | calm background |
| 3. Accent | for buttons, highlights | guides the eye |
| 4. Exact codes | HEX or similar, saved | same colour everywhere |
| 5. Contrast check | text on background | readable for everyone |
Frequently asked questions
How many colours should a palette have?
Keep it small: a base, a neutral and an accent cover many designs. Add more only when you need them.
How do I get the exact colour from my screen?
Use a colour picker app with an eyedropper and copy the code it gives you.
Why is my text hard to read?
Low contrast with the background. Darken the text or lighten the background and check it again.