Color Profile

Straw Color

#E4D96F

RGB 228, 217, 111 · warm · yellow family

HEX #E4D96F RGB 228, 217, 111 HSL 54, 68%, 66% CMYK 0, 5, 51, 11

Colors that go with Straw

Brown #A52A2A
Olive #808000
Flax #EEDC82
Maize #FBEC5D

How to mix Straw

Straw color is a warm, muted hue reminiscent of dried grass. This color can be created by mixing specific proportions of yellow and burlywood. To achieve the straw color, approximately 85% yellow and 15% burlywood are combined.

Yellow, a primary color, brings brightness and warmth to the mixture. It is often associated with sunshine and happiness. Burlywood, on the other hand, is a light brown shade that adds a natural, earthy tone to the blend. The combination of these two colors results in a soft, golden hue that resembles the color of straw.

When mixing colors, it is helpful to start with the yellow paint. A generous amount should be placed on the palette. Next, a smaller amount of burlywood can be added. The two colors should be blended thoroughly until a uniform straw color is achieved. If the resulting mixture appears too yellow, a tiny bit more burlywood can be added to balance the tone. Conversely, if it looks too brown, a touch more yellow can help brighten it up.

Artists can use straw color in various ways. It can serve as a background shade in paintings or be used in still-life compositions to depict natural elements. Understanding the proportions of colors allows for greater control over the final outcome. Experimentation is encouraged, as slight variations in the ratio can create different shades of straw, adding depth and interest to artistic projects.

Straw color is made from ~

85% Yellow + 15% Burlywood

#FFFF00 85%
#DEB887 15%

How Straw is made in print

CMYK

CMYK uses subtractive color mixing for printing. Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black) inks combine to absorb light, creating colors.

CYAN
0 %
MAGENTA
5 %
YELLOW
51 %
BLACK
11 %

Historical context for Straw

The color straw is derived from the dried stalks of grain, which have been used for centuries for thatch, bedding, and various crafts. This ancient and practical association grounds the color in natural materials and human ingenuity. Its history is tied to agricultural life. Origin / Etymology: Old English “streaw”.

Color psychology

Straw conveys a sense of simplicity and a charming rustic feel, inspiring feelings of warmth and natural calm. It is a humble and unpretentious color that evokes quiet contentment. This unassuming hue can create a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Cultural significance

This color is deeply influenced by farm and countryside aesthetics, immediately bringing to mind rural landscapes and natural materials. It represents a connection to simpler times and an appreciation for artisanal qualities. Its cultural impact is rooted in pastoral traditions.

Design uses for Straw

Straw is an ideal choice for rustic branding, evoking a handcrafted, natural, and authentic identity. It also works beautifully in eco-friendly packaging, signaling sustainable practices and organic materials. This color communicates honesty, simplicity, and a gentle environmental awareness.

Color pairings

Straw pairs harmoniously with rich brown, creating a deeply natural and earthy combination that feels grounded and comforting. Muted olive provides a serene, organic complement, while soft off-white offers a clean, warm backdrop that allows straw's natural hue to shine. Consider a soft terracotta or a deep rust for added warmth and texture.

Symbolic or religious meanings

Straw symbolizes humble origins and pastoral vibes, reflecting its natural simplicity and connection to agrarian life. It embodies authenticity, resilience, and an understated natural beauty. This hue suggests a connection to basic necessities and a calm existence.

COLOR TEMPERATURE
warm

Similar colors

Flax #EEDC82
Buff #F0DC82
Maize #FBEC5D
Mustard #FFDB58
Tan #D2B48C
Earth Yellow #E1A95F

More Earth-Tones colors

Tan #D2B48C
Khaki #C3B091
Olive #808000
Olive Drab #6B8E23
Sage #9CAF88
Moss Green #8A9A5B

Keep exploring color recipes and combinations.

Browse all colors