Does anyone know of a good book or reference on paint color theory, specifically related to cars, if possible? Or maybe post something for Tech Week? (hint, hint!) In the recent thread by Whodaky, John's Picnic, Images, I was struck by how many of the cars hit my hot ****on on color. Even some colors I don't normally like looked very good to my eye. And I realized that I don't really know how to describe technically what I was looking at. For example, see the opening shot of John Lynch's blue 3-window. I don't usually like blue cars, but that satiny shade is beautiful. How would I say, "I'd like that same look in green or maroon?" - What are the correct words to decribe the qualities of that color? e.g. shade, hew, tint, shine, reflection, intensity, depth, etc. Here's a link to that thread: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=77177
I always use the term "value" as in "I'd like a green color with the same value as this blue." That always works for me at the paint counter. they seem to understand that term.
This is probaby the best book on color I've ever used... I know it's not necessarily related to cars, but it will definately get you thinking "outside of the box" so to speak. I use it pretty often for ideas on just about anything. What you won't get, is the difference in gloss vs. flat colors, textures, pearls etc. But like I said, it's a big help with inspiration on colors you wouldn't normally put together or ever think of. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1581801955/104-7024501-4755940?v=glance
Thanks for the tip - that's exactly the sort of thing I'm looking for. I know about gloss, flat, pearl etc. It's using color, especially in combinations, that I'm interested in knowing more about. I love the two-tone styles of the fifties. The turquoises, sea foam greens, corals and so on really excite me. Kaiser color-charts were fabulous - what Kaiser lacked in number of products, they compensated for in number of interior and exterior colors and textures.
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