Toonvärvi

Toonvärvi is a term used in Estonian discourse on visual design to describe the color approach associated with cartoon- or toon-style visuals. It refers to a non-photorealistic color treatment that emphasizes flat, evenly tinted areas, strong contrasts, and clearly defined boundaries, producing a stylized, animated appearance.

The word combines toon, reflecting the cartoon or toon aesthetic, and värvi, meaning color. In practice, toonvärvi describes choices of hue, saturation, and brightness that support readability and a playful or energetic tone rather than realism.

Common characteristics include a limited color palette, bold outline work, and minimal shading. When shading is used, it is typically represented with a single, often darker, color rather than a full gradient; highlights are usually bright but sparse. The result is a clean, high-contrast look that remains legible at small sizes.

Applications include 2D animation, webcomics, and indie video games, where toonvärvi helps convey character and mood while simplifying production. The concept is closely related to cel shading and non-photorealistic rendering.

See also: cel shading, non-photorealistic rendering, color palette, flat design.