Poline

What Is Poline?

Poline is a free, open-source color palette generator that uses polar coordinates to create harmonious color schemes. Written in TypeScript and available as a lightweight, dependency-free JavaScript library, Poline generates color palettes by drawing lines between anchor points in polar HSL color space. Rather than applying simple linear blending between colors, Poline calculates transitions using polar coordinate mathematics, producing visually distinctive and expressive palettes suited for UI design, data visualization, and generative creative work.

What Poline Does

• Generates color palettes by interpolating between user-defined anchor colors using polar coordinates
• Allows customization of color distribution through position functions (linear, sinusoidal, quadratic) for each axis
• Produces a specified number of colors between anchors, with control over palette density and spread
• Supports closed-loop palettes and inverted lightness options for varied aesthetic outcomes
• Outputs colors in multiple formats, including CSS-ready color values for immediate design application
• Operates as a micro-library with minimal dependencies, making it suitable for integration into larger design tools and workflows

How Poline Can Be Used

• Generating perceptually distinct color sets for data visualization charts and dashboards
• Creating cohesive color systems for user interface design by defining a few base colors and letting Poline interpolate the full range
• Building generative design systems where color palettes are algorithmically produced based on input parameters
• Developing dynamic color schemes for creative and artistic projects that require non-traditional color transitions
• Establishing brand color systems that maintain harmony and visual balance across multiple applications

Who Is Poline For?

Poline serves designers and developers who need to generate color palettes programmatically or who want more control over color relationships than traditional palette generators offer. It is particularly valuable for those working on generative design projects, data visualization, design systems, and applications where color harmony and mathematical control are priorities. Developers can integrate Poline into their projects via its JavaScript library, while designers can interact with it through its web interface. The tool works well for both individual designers exploring color theory and teams building scalable design systems. Visit Poline