Playing with Color: 50 Graphic Experiments for Exploring Color Design Principles

Playing with Color is a hands-on digital workbook for anyone who wants to understand color through direct experience. It provides 50 graphic experiments for exploring color design principles in a playful, practical way. The PDF edition is ready for instant download after purchase.

Written by Richard Mehl, a graphic designer and educator, the book draws on the teaching methods of Johannes Itten and Josef Albers. It is designed to be used in the classroom or independently, with projects that build color awareness and confidence.

Book Overview

Playing with Color presents a toolkit of ideas and skills for working with color. The book begins with an introduction to learning through play and moves through a continuum of color from cave paintings to modern color wheels. The remaining sections offer 50 experiments in color wheels, color grids, color illusion, abstract composition, typography and color, expressive color, and projects beyond two dimensions.

Many assignments are adapted from exercises originally developed by Itten and Albers. Each project provides a focused color experience and helps readers develop a disciplined, playful approach to creative problem solving.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• A clear introduction to the philosophy of play as a path to learning color.
• 50 graphic experiments with practical instructions and visual examples.
• Projects shaped by the color teaching of Johannes Itten and Josef Albers.
• Exercises in color contrast, color illusion, typography, expressive color, and more.
• A color and design glossary for quick reference.
• A flexible structure that works for classroom study or independent exploration.

Why This Book Matters

Color is essential to visual expression, and this book treats it as something to explore rather than memorize. By connecting contemporary design practice to Bauhaus-era teaching, Richard Mehl offers a meaningful bridge between theory and hands-on experience.

Readers who complete these experiments gain a deeper sensitivity to form, color, material, and craft. The process supports both personal growth and professional design work.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This is a digital download, so no physical item will be shipped. Access is available immediately after purchase. The PDF can be read with compatible Kindle apps, tablets, desktop computers, mobile devices, and most PDF reading applications.

FAQ

How do I access the book after purchase?
The download is available instantly in your account after payment is confirmed.

Is a physical copy included?
No. This is a digital PDF file, and no printed book will be sent.

Which devices are supported?
The PDF works with Kindle apps, tablets, smartphones, computers, and standard PDF readers.

Download Playing with Color and begin your own series of graphic color experiments.

Verified Bibliographic Details