(Updated 1/24/22)
So, who out there struggles with how to choose the perfect paint color? This is a question I get asked a lot! I'll admit I used to struggle as well.... yep had a few walls in my past that I had to repaint. It can be such a pain when you scour through paint samples, think you've found the perfect color, buy the paint, roll on that first pass, and get that sick feeling in the pit of your stomach that this NOT the right color.......arrgh! I've been there, I understand your pain.
So, this week I wanted to share with you some of my tips for choosing the perfect paint color.
“I would like to paint the way a bird sings”
How to Choose the Perfect Paint Color
-Try to match a color that's already present in your room such as a pillow, blanket, or home décor item. If you don't want to match a color exactly, try to coordinate your new paint color with the existing colors in your space. Your goal is to have everything blend together.
-When selecting a color pay close attention to any underlying tones that may come out. Look at the full range of the sample stick to see if this is the right color family you're looking for. For example: Some reds can have too much orange, or too much pink. A purple can have too much blue or too much pink. Just something to think about when looking at paint samples.
-If there are two colors you can't decide on, go for the lighter one. Generally, paint seems to look darker on the wall than on the paint swatch.
-If you want a space to feel bigger use whites, pastels, or neutral colors. If you want a space to feel smaller use darker colors. Generally white or light colors look best on ceilings and painted trim.
-For an accent wall I like to select a darker color that's on the same paint stick as your main color. This will help your colors blend nicely and there won’t be any underlying tones that will fight against each other.
-When you've narrowed down your paint colors to a few choices, place the paint chips on different walls in the room you'll be painting to test how it looks in different light, whether artificial or natural light.
-An even better option is to buy a pint of a few of your favorites and paint test squares on your walls, or on a large piece of thick paper. PLEASE wait until the paint has dried to make your final decision, as paint changes color as it dries.
-A fun new product that’s been really helpful are large removable paint samples, similar to removable vinyl. They come in about 1’ x 1’ squares and can be placed on your wall to double check your paint selection and then can easily be removed. There is a small fee for this, but much cheaper than buying a new gallon of paint.
-When you've done all these steps be patient and wait a few days to test the light during different times of day. If the room is empty feel free to bring in a few décor items and sit next to the wall color. This can really help the color come alive and help you get a good sense of how the room might look when completed.
-If your still not sure which color is best email me: Jessica@jessicaharrisinteriors.com I would love to help :)
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Summary
Well, I hope I've given you a few ideas on how to choose your perfect paint color. Maybe helped you feel a little more confident on your color choice, so you don't get that sick feeling in the pit of your stomach again!
I would LOVE to help you with your design problems whether big or small! I offer eDesign (online Interior Design) so I can help you wherever you may live. Visit my Services tab for my prices and services. I can't wait to hear from you :)
See you next week.
-Jessica Harris
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