Free generator

Color Palette Generator

Pick a base color and a scheme to get a matching palette with HEX codes and CSS variables. Schemes follow standard color wheel rules.

By iToolsLab Editorial TeamUpdated 14 October 2026How we build tools

What is color palette generator?

A good palette makes a design feel consistent. This generator builds schemes from the color wheel, so the colors have a clear relationship instead of being picked by chance.

You get swatches with HEX codes and a block of CSS variables you can paste into a stylesheet.

How to use the color palette generator

  1. Choose your base color.
  2. Pick a scheme.
  3. Copy the HEX codes or the CSS variables.

How the color palette generator works

The base color is converted to hue, saturation and lightness. Complementary adds 180 degrees to the hue. Triadic uses 120 degree steps, tetradic uses 90 degree steps and analogous uses nearby hues. Monochromatic keeps the hue and changes lightness.

Worked example

A base indigo of #4f46e5 with a triadic scheme gives that indigo plus a red orange and a green, each 120 degrees apart.

Common uses of the color palette generator

  • Choosing brand colors.
  • Building a website theme.
  • Designing slides and posters.
  • Making charts readable.
  • Finding accent colors.

Tips and common mistakes

Use one main color, one support color and neutrals. Do not use every swatch equally.

Check contrast between text and background colors.

Background: what to know before you rely on it

Color theory describes how hues relate. Complementary colors sit opposite each other and create strong contrast. Analogous colors sit side by side and feel harmonious. Triadic and tetradic schemes use evenly spaced colors for lively designs but need one dominant color to avoid chaos. In practice, designers often use the 60 30 10 rule: 60 percent main color, 30 percent support and 10 percent accent. Always test your palette for people with color blindness and for text contrast.

Private, free and fast

This tool runs entirely in your browser. What you type or choose is not uploaded to a server and is not saved after you close the page, which keeps it fast and private. It is free to use as often as you like. See more in all generators, or browse the full list of tools.

Frequently asked questions

What is a complementary color?

The color opposite your base on the wheel.

Which scheme is safest?

Analogous and monochromatic look calm and are hard to get wrong.

Can I use the HEX codes in Figma?

Yes.

Does it check accessibility?

No. Test text contrast separately.

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Results are for information and education. For legal, financial, medical or security decisions, check with a qualified professional. Do not use online generators for regulated draws or critical security keys.