Color Index

I needed something to use as a quick guide and reference for finding color schemes and the correct color values when designing printed materials. You get two books packed in a hard, slide out type storage box (the image you see is the outter case) It slides open to reveal the two books; version 1 and the latest version, book 2. The book is broken down into color pallettes using a color wheel and has CMYK values on one side of the page and the corresponding RGB value on the other side of the page and a sample color scheme in the middle. I am very pleased with the layout, compact size, and contents of these books. I began using it immediately with my design work and it provided a better result in my full color printed products. LRG [...]

I thought the book was a little whacked until I realized my monitor was out of calibration. I used the Eye-One Display 2 Monitor Calibrator to calibrate my monitor and now I am getting colors that are VERY close to the book. There isn't much to say about it except that is it very easy to use, very intuitive, and will have you making better color choices without having to learn one single thing about color theory. You can be completely color-theory illiterate and still make great choices using this book. In fact, you could be writing hex code for html on a monochrome monitor, while using this book, and still get it right! The book is split up into sections based on color. "Combination of blue hues" is the first section cluster. Within that section is "Blues + neighboring hues", "Blues + opposing hues", "Blues + neutral hues", and "Blues + black and tints of black." These section clusters continue for Reds, Violets, Orange, Yellow, and Greens. At the end you will find "Mixed combinations of Saturated Hues", "Mixed Combinations of Semi-muted Hues", "Mixed Combination of Neutrals and Muted Hues", Mixed Combination of Neutrals and Saturated Hues." I highly recommend this book, just be sure that your monitor is calibrated before you start complaining about the book's color numbers being wrong (like I initially did.)

Tasteful use of color can make or break a web or print design, and this book is an invaluable tool in that endeavor. At first glance it might seem overpriced for nothing but a collection of color combinations, but you'll find yourself turning to it again and again for inspiration.The color schemes are organized by category ("Quiet", "Natural", "Restrained Chic", etc.), and each is presented in three different ways - as a set of plain vertical bars, as a homogenous pattern, and used in a simple iconic design. Throughout the book are brief passages on different color techniques ("Unexpected Color", "Muting", etc.), which help stimulate brainstorming and experimentation.The book is well-made, too - it's printed on sturdy paper, conveniently sized, and thoughtfully bound in a waterproof vinyl cover. Stick it in your pocket or backpack and take it anywhere.A great practical purchase (or gift!) for any graphic designer.

This is a terrific book for the novice or the veteran user, whether you are into web design or vector / raster graphics. These ready-made combinations are categorized and provide the settings for CYMK, RGB and Hex.Being "color challenged" I appreciated the combinations. Having a short attention span, I appreciated the brevity of the book. The vinyl cover is a nice touch making it a durable resource.

I have more reference books on design than, well... more than I care to count. These include a number on color - but most guides are really fixated on Pantone - which is odd considering that 4-color work is more common. This book is always by my side. Its schemes are fantastic in cmyk, rbg and websafe. Its categories are much better than most of the color guides I've seen (and bought). What's more - its size and sturdy plastic covers are great - and unlike almost every other design reference book I own - THE BINDING IS SEWN - so THE PAGES WON'T FALL OUT. There is nothing more infuriating than a good reference that falls apart before it even gets a good try. Everyone else who reviewed this book mentioned its many other fine points. But I have to add this one, particularly after the glue on one of my Robin William's books melted on a first read. This BOOK IS VIRTUALLY INDESTRUCTIBLE. Worth every penny!