Color as a basic element of design

Color is a key element of any kind of design. It can help you set the mood, emphasize certain aspects, and so much more. Let’s learn about the characteristics of color and the two color systems used in design.

The 5 characteristics of color

Color has five different characteristics. Learning to identify each will help you achieve better results in your designs.

Every color is associated with something. Learn more about color psychology and color theory in order to choose the right palettes for your design projects.

Color systems in design: RGB vs. CMYK

Designers use two different color systems: RGB and CMYK.

The RGB color system is dedicated to digital design. The name of the system stands for red, green, and blue—the primary colors. Mixing them together is how you produce different RGB color combinations.

RGB vs. CMYK: Example of the RGB color system.RGB vs. CMYK: Example of the RGB color system.RGB vs. CMYK: Example of the RGB color system.
RGB is used for designs that will be featured on screens.

Designers work with the CMYK color system when they want to print their work. CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (black is the K for key color.) 

RGB vs. CMYK: Example of the CMYK color system.RGB vs. CMYK: Example of the CMYK color system.RGB vs. CMYK: Example of the CMYK color system.
CMYK is used for designs that will be printed.

Whenever you create a new file in the design software of your choice, it is crucial that you set the right color space from the get-go. If you convert CMYK to RGB or vice versa, the colors may look dull.

And that’s it for color! Keen to explore all the basic elements of design? Our complete course covers each of them with definitions, examples, and so much more.


Keep learning more about design here on Envato Tuts+. We have tutorials for both beginners and advanced designers!

You can also try Envato to get unlimited access to all kinds of creative assets: graphic templates, design software add-ons, 3D models—you name it! Moreover, the Envato blog offers handy resources where you can learn from real-world designers and take inspiration from them.

You can learn more about color theory in our tutorials below:

Now that you understand the characteristics of color, you’re one step closer to becoming a master in design theory. Check out our other tutorials and get there faster!