Pre-Mixing Colors vs. Mixing as You Go: Which Is Better?
Should You Pre-Mix Your Colors Before Painting?
Short answer: There is no single right way. Pre-mixing colors can be very useful, especially for large paintings, but not pre-mixing lets you react to the painting and shift your colors as you go. I personally don't pre-mix, and I recommend every painter try both approaches to find out what works for them.
What does it mean to pre-mix colors?
Pre-mixing means preparing piles of your main colors on the palette before you start painting. Not pre-mixing means mixing your colors as you go, in response to what the painting needs at each stage.
Why I don't pre-mix my colors
Personally, I tend to not pre-mix colors. I am more of a reactive painter, in the sense that I look at the outdoor study, the photo, or a combination of both, and I mix as I go along.
"I am more of a reactive painter in the sense that I look at the outdoor study or the photo image or a combination of both and I mix as I go along."
There are so many different color routes you can take along the way of a painting. If I pre-mix my colors, I am stuck with those original colors. Colors are about feeling and mood, and as I go along, I may shift my colors. I do NOT shift my values, just my colors.
When is pre-mixing colors useful?
There is nothing wrong with pre-mixing colors. If you are working on a large piece, it can be very useful. On the other hand, if you are dealing with a lot of color, it may be harder to pre-mix. And if you don't pre-mix, you are not bound to those pre-mixed piles of color.
Should beginners pre-mix colors or mix as they go?
I suggest trying both. If you haven't tried pre-mixing yet, try pre-mixing some basic colors. If you usually pre-mix, try not pre-mixing and see if you can go with the flow of the painting.
It is all about experimenting. Some experiments work out and some fail, but if they fail, at least you know they are not for you. If a method feels uncomfortable and you feel like you are fighting it, that doesn't necessarily mean it's wrong for you. Try it a few times, and if it continually doesn't work, go back to what works for you. Always try to push yourself as an artist.
Key takeaways
Pre-mixing is helpful for large paintings and keeping colors consistent. Mixing as you go gives you freedom to shift colors for mood and feeling. Whichever you choose, keep your values consistent. The best approach is the one you discover by trying both.