Mixing colors is often a challenge, particularly for beginners. The three base colors — yellow, blue and red — also known as primary colors, can be used to produce all other colors. Mixing two base colors produces what are known as secondary colors, for example green, from blue and yellow. If you know how the individual colors react when combined with others, you will be able to produce an extremely nuanced palette of colors. The end result is determined by the proportions of the different colors that you use.
If you mix too many colors together you will end up with a sludgy brown or gray. So start by mixing two colors. Use the lighter tone as the foundation as it is usually very difficult, if not totally impossible, to lighten dark colors. Try different series of colors by blending two colors of your choice and then observe the color transitions and nuances that emerge. You can do this either by mixing two colors in the box and applying the resulting color to the paper or by allowing two colors to run into one another directly on the paper.
Before starting your illustration, try out possible color combinations on some jotting paper, which will enable you to see which colors go well together before you start. In addition, testing paints and brushes will give you more confidence in handling the materials you are working with.