Choosing paint colors can seem like a daunting task when you don’t know where to begin. Below are some simple tips to get you started.
1. The finish you choose for your wall paint can have an effect on its color.
Flat/Matte:
- adds richness
- hides surface imperfections– ideal for exteriors
- porous, absorbs stains– shouldn’t be used in high-traffic areas
- cannot be washed
- easier touch-ups
- dull texture makes it perfect for ceilings
- “washable matte”– still not as durable as other finishes
Eggshell/Low Luster:
- mostly chosen for kitchens and bathrooms
- less porous than flat, slightly more durable
- may highlight surface flaws
- most popular finish for exterior
Semi-gloss:
- enamel– produces a harder finish and is more durable
- produces a noticable gloss
- easy to clean
- will showcase surface flaws
- mostly used for doors, windows, and trim.
Glossy / High-gloss:
- enamel– smooth, highly durable finish
- highly glossy finish
- dust/dirt will not stick to it
- mostly used for doors, windows, and trim
2. Consider the mood you want your room to have. Bright colors with more intense hues will make a room feel energized and lively. Subdued hues will have a calming effect.
3. Know the color scheme for your room. Choose a favorite pillow, fabric pattern, or a picture of another room as reference to take with you when you select a paint color.
- Complimentary– colors opposite each other on the color wheel– red and green
- Analogous– colors on the same side of the color wheel– warm or cool
- Neutral– taupes, cremes, grays, etc
4. Consider how the new Atlanta home painting color will look next to adjacent rooms.
5. Be mindful of the type of lighting the area has.
- Natural– shows truest color
- Incandescent– brings out warm/yellow tones
- Florescent– casts a sharp blue tone
6. Primer is very important, especially if painting an exterior– it will block out the original wall color so it does not affect the color of the new paint, and will provide the paint with longevity.
7. Get a lot of different paint color samples to try out. Until you try a swatch on the area you will be painting, you cannot be sure how it will look.
8. Let the samples fully dry before judging the final color, wait a few days before you make up your mind, and take notes about each sample on the back of the paint card, to be reminded of which ones you did or didn’t like.