Exploring weave colour quality through the optical mixing of CMY and achromatic yarns in woven artworks

Reproduction of multi-coloured artworks remains challenging in weaving due to limited coloured-yarns available in production. Previous research demonstrated similarities between CMYK system and optical yarn colour mixing when pairs of cyan [C], magenta [M], yellow [Y], and black [K] were combined. However, gaps remain in understanding chroma control, particularly the use of achromatic yarns (black [K], grey [Gr], white [Wh]) and optical effects of three-way combinations (e.g., [C]+[M]+[Y]). Therefore, this study examines chroma modulation to understand juxtaposed coloured-yarns effects when three primaries are interwoven with achromatic yarns as well as the optical behaviour of triadic ([C]+[M]+[Y]) weaves, which serves as a critical reference for improving reproduction quality. Prototype experiments showed achromatic yarns modulate chromaticity, while triadic combinations struggle to produce saturated black hues. Findings were applied to reproduce a complex multi-coloured Jacquard artwork, validating the prototype results. The study details weaving experiments and demonstrates practical application for simulating complex artworks.