Whether refreshing a room or renovating a home, fresh paint is the easiest and most impactful way to breathe new life into a space without breaking the bank. But after pursuing thousands (yes, thousands) of tiny paint color chips at the store, analysis paralysis takes over. Is this white too warm? Blue too cool? Then, once you make tough decisions and narrow down your options to only the top contenders, you take your selected paint chips home. And guess what? They look different at home than in the store. Heck, they begin to look different in the various rooms of your same house. Pearls are clutched, and the cycle repeats. But not anymore! You are not alone in what may seem like a never-ending quest to find the perfect paint color for each room and special project at your home.
1. Let There Be Light: Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear. Stores often use fluorescent lighting, while homes generally have incandescent or natural light. Natural light changes throughout the day, causing variations in how a color looks.
Quick Tip: Paint a section on the wall with a sample quart to observe how it appears in different lighting throughout the day.
2. Chip Away: Paint chips at stores are printed, not painted, which can affect their appearance. Once you’ve narrowed down options, purchase sample quarts and test with real paint to ensure it matches your vision.
Quick Tip: Test your 2-3 favorite colors with real paint to confirm your choice.
3. Finishing Touch: The paint sheen or finish impacts color appearance. Flat finishes absorb more light, ensuring consistent color despite lighting variations. High-gloss paint is reflective, altering the perceived color based on light reflection.
Quick Tip: Decide on the finish you desire and test paint accordingly: flat for ceilings, semi-gloss for trim/cabinets, and satin for walls.
4. Testing, Testing: After acquiring sample quarts, paint swatches on your room walls. Ensure they’re not placed too close to other colors to avoid influence and observe how the color changes with varying light.
Quick Tip: Apply a large swatch on multiple walls to truly understand the shade in different lighting.
5. Read the Room: Consider existing decor, especially if choosing colors for an empty house. Use textiles or throw pillows to ensure the color matches your decor.
Quick Tip: Always try before you buy to avoid surprises!
Finding the right paint color involves a combination of testing, considering lighting, finishes, and existing decor. Remember, it’s a creative process, so take your time and enjoy the transformation!