What Colors Make Red?
Learn how to mix and create different shades of red
Red is one of the three primary colors in traditional color theory and cannot be made by mixing other pigments together. However, in light-based color systems (RGB), red is created by red light wavelengths. You can create various shades and tones of red by mixing it with other colors.
How to Make Red
Red
Yellow
#F97316
Red and yellow create orange shades.
Red
Blue
#9333EA
Red and blue create purple shades.
Red
White
#FDA4AF
Adding white creates pink shades.
Red
Black
#991B1B
Adding black creates maroon and burgundy.
Color Theory: Understanding Red
In subtractive color mixing (paints, pigments), red is a primary color. In additive color mixing (light, screens), red is also a primary, created by wavelengths around 620-750 nanometers. The specific shade of red you see depends on which wavelengths are reflected or emitted.
Shades & Variations of Red
Scarlet
#FF2400
Red with a touch of orange
Burgundy
#800020
Red with black and purple
Crimson
#DC143C
Red with a touch of blue
Maroon
#800000
Red with black
Coral
#FF7F50
Red with orange and white
Rose
#FF007F
Red with a touch of blue and white
Cherry
#DE3163
Bright red with slight pink
Ruby
#E0115F
Deep red with pink undertone
Vermillion
#E34234
Red with orange undertone
Brick Red
#CB4154
Red with brown and earth tones
Wine
#722F37
Dark red with purple and black
Carmine
#960018
Deep rich red with slight blue
Pro Tips for Mixing Red
- Cadmium red is warm (orange-leaning), alizarin crimson is cool (blue-leaning)
- Red advances visually—it appears closer than cool colors
- Red and green are complements; use them for high contrast or mix for brown
- Use red sparingly as an accent—it's powerful and attention-grabbing