diff --git a/src/java/com/threerings/media/image/ColorPository.java b/src/java/com/threerings/media/image/ColorPository.java
index 0eab85c3..29b5d205 100644
--- a/src/java/com/threerings/media/image/ColorPository.java
+++ b/src/java/com/threerings/media/image/ColorPository.java
@@ -304,6 +304,16 @@ public class ColorPository implements Serializable
         return cids;
     }
 
+    /**
+     * Returns true if the specified color is legal for use at character creation time. false is
+     * always returned for non-existent colors or classes.
+     */
+    public boolean isLegalStartColor (int colorPrint)
+    {
+        ColorRecord color = getColorRecord(colorPrint >> 8, colorPrint & 0xFF);
+        return (color == null) ? false : color.starter;
+    }
+
     /**
      * Returns true if the specified color is legal for use at character creation time. false is
      * always returned for non-existent colors or classes.