Ask any paint expert and they’ll tell you the most difficult part of a painting project is choosing the perfect color. Most homeowners lack color confidence and as a result, many choose to repaint with a shade closely matching the original color or with another neutral tone.
So how can you embrace bold and beautiful colors when you are afraid of choosing something too colorful or daring? Fortunately for all of us who are color challenged, there are many resources for us to turn to when selecting a new paint shade. Here are some ideas on how to find the perfect color of paint for your project:
Look around – What color are the walls at your favorite coffee shop or restaurant? What about your best friend’s kitchen? Notice the shades of color other people are using. Great ideas often come from our own environment.
Books/Magazines/Catalogs – Book and magazine publishers learned a long time ago that most homeowners are afraid of color. That’s why they work with interior decorators and designers to show off rooms in exciting new shades. Hit the library or your favorite bookstore to determine what shades are popular. Or, look at furniture catalogs, which often have the featured paint colors listed.
Manufacturer’s web sites – Paint manufacturers have been in the business of selling paint for a long time and they have collections of inspiring photography and decorating ideas on their web sites. Oftentimes, they even separate photography by color palette. The best part is they always identify which color they used.
Retailers – Go to your favorite paint store or retailer and check out the paint centers with color cards, brochures, swatches and other great color selection tools. Many paint manufacturers are now offering testers so that you can take home a few favorite shades and test them in your home before buying several gallons.
Accessories – Not sure about a favorite color for the walls, but you do have a favorite piece of furniture, carpet design or pillow? Build your room around a central accessory by identifying matching or contrasting colors for the walls.