I was having a conversation with a client a few days ago, and an interesting question came up. “David, how do I know I have chosen the right color?”
As we looked around, I noticed the many colors, shapes, and surfaces in their home. The wood floor had a warm honey brown color, the front foyer boasted a rich terracotta shade, and the walls were a mustard yellow, which we at Casanova Painting were set to change. The ceiling was white, and the moldings had an off-white hue, almost like Benjamin Moore Cloud White or Sherwin-Williams Ivory White. It struck me that when choosing a color, we often rely on a tiny 2×2 inch sample. So how can we make the right choice? Here’s what I suggested to our potential client:
1. Have a Clear Idea of the Desired Feel for Each Area
Knowing what you want to achieve once the painting is done is crucial as a first step. This clarity saves time and narrows down options. For instance, if you dislike blues or greens, you can eliminate those colors right away. This focus helps in honing in on the perfect choice.
2. Look Online for Inspiration
While it can be overwhelming, technology provides ample inspiration for the feel of your rooms or spaces. Having a rough idea allows your painter to assist in selecting the right colors. Often, someone else has similar tastes, and their designs can guide your choices. We’re not suggesting you copy someone else’s idea, but seeing another’s bathroom or living room can direct you toward your ideal color palette.
3. Use Online Color Tools
Paint manufacturers frequently release new colors and trends, often in collaboration with designers. Companies like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, Behr, Dulux Paints, and Cloverdale Paint offer tools known as Color Visualizers. These tools allow you to upload photos of your spaces and experiment with different colors. Some websites are more advanced than others, but these tools help visualize how your chosen colors will look in your space.
4. Get Color Chips
With a more realistic perspective on your chosen color, visit your local paint supplier to get actual color chips. Although small, these samples let you see the true color. Examine the chips in natural and artificial light (see our other post on lighting) and place them against a white paper to get a true sense of the color. Also, position the chips against your cabinets, floors, and various light conditions in your home to see how the color changes.
5. Get a Tester Pot
So far, steps 1-4 are free of charge, highlighting how much we care at Casanova Painting. Getting tester pots brings you closer to choosing the right color. Applying the color to your walls provides a true representation and indicates the paint’s coverage and the number of coats needed. This step helps you understand the project’s scope, including the amount of paint required and the duration.
Seeing the color on your surfaces also lets you evaluate it in different lighting conditions. If the color isn’t right, you can adjust accordingly—lighter, darker, warmer, cooler, etc. Alternatively, the tester might confirm your choice, meaning your homework is done.
6. Get Casanova Painting to Paint
With your homework complete, you’re ready for the painting crew to prep the surfaces (more on this later). Your due diligence ensures minimal surprises, saving time and money while guaranteeing the right color.
Often, clients ask to change the color mid-project, causing delays and additional costs for extra paint and supplies. Avoid this by following these steps.
For more information about colors or our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.
David.
David C.
7788782008
