ColorPage

Section 7-3 of the blue book refers to the chromatic colors of buttons. The color of a button is determined by the color visible at the shank or back of the button. The blue book glossary defines nine basic colors for competition purposes. These nine colors are shown below along with examples of opaque and transparent buttons that fit in the nine color groups. Keep in mind that the colors displayed may appear different to different viewers depending on browser settings and personal interpretation. Such differences also exist when looking at buttons in person depending on the light source (incandescent, florescent, or natural daylight). The Blue Book glossary further defines shades and tints where shades are made by adding black to the basic color and tints are made by adding white to the basic color. Examples of shades and tints are shown in the right column below for a basic blue button. The surface of the button may be altered with a decorative finish, overlay, veneer, etc. One must remember that the physical color spectrum is a continuum of colors and not discreet as defined for purposes of competition. Therefore, it is prudent that awards specify the range of colors desired or allowed to avoid confusion (e.g. is turquoise allowed for buttons competed in an award for blue buttons?). See the note and link at the bottom of this page to print or download a simple worksheet for 7-3, Colors assorted.
Blue Book Colors	Opaque and Transparent Examples		Examples of Tints and Shades (Blue)







		Intermixed shades of brown

A simple work sheet for Section 7-3, Colors assorted, can be accessed and downloaded and/or printed by clicking on the button below.