Bad Bruise vs Black Violet

How close are they?

ΔE 4.9, very close: most people won’t see a difference side by side. Black Violet is more muted, warmer than Bad Bruise.

Can I use Black Violet instead of Bad Bruise?

Yes, for most jobs. Very close match (ΔE 5). Black Violet is more muted, warmer than Bad Bruise.

Can I use Bad Bruise instead of Black Violet?

The same difference applies the other way round: Bad Bruise is more saturated, cooler.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.