Which color scheme involves using varying shades of a single color?

The concept of a monochromatic color scheme is based on the use of different shades, tones, and tints of a single color. This means that you take one base color and then create a palette by adding black to create shades, white to create tints, and gray to create tones. The result is a cohesive and harmonious look, as all the variations come from the same hue. This approach is often used in design to create a unified aesthetic and can effectively convey depth and interest while remaining visually consistent.

In contrast, a complementary scheme leverages colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, creating contrast. An analogous scheme incorporates colors that sit next to each other on the wheel, fostering a sense of harmony, while a triadic scheme uses three colors that are evenly spaced on the wheel, promoting balance and vibrancy. These other arrangements do not involve the variation of a single color, making monochromatic the distinct choice for that characteristic.