How to Pick Paint Colors: Your Questions Answered

Choosing the right interior paint color can be a daunting task, but it’s one of the most effective ways to transform the look and feel of your home. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks to help you pick the perfect interior paint color for each room.

How do you pick the right shade of paint for each room?

There are several factors to consider that can help make the decision easier. One important consideration is the purpose of the room. For example, if the room is intended for relaxation, such as a bedroom or living room, you may want to choose a calming color, such as a soft blue or green. On the other hand, if the room is intended for activity, such as a home gym or playroom, you may want to choose a more energizing color, such as a bright yellow or orange.

Another factor to consider is the amount of natural light that the room receives. Rooms with a lot of natural light can handle bolder colors, while rooms with limited natural light may benefit from lighter, brighter colors to help make the space feel more open and inviting.

It’s also important to consider the existing decor and furnishings in the room. Choosing a paint color that complements the existing color scheme can help tie the room together and create a cohesive look.

Finally, consider your personal preferences and style. While it’s important to consider the function of the room and the existing decor, ultimately the paint color should be one that you love and that reflects your personal style and taste.

Does paint look lighter or darker on walls?

When it comes to paint, the appearance on walls can be quite different than what is shown on the paint swatch or in the can. The same paint can appear to be lighter or darker depending on the surface it is applied to. In general, paint will look darker on walls than it does on a paint swatch or in a can.

This is because the color of the wall itself affects how the paint appears. If the wall is dark, it will absorb more light, making the paint look darker. Similarly, if the wall is light, it will reflect more light, making the paint look lighter. The amount of natural light in the room can also affect how the paint appears, as different lighting conditions can make colors appear differently.

Another factor that can affect how paint appears on walls is the texture of the wall surface. If the wall has a rough or uneven texture, the paint may appear darker because it settles into the crevices and shadows. On the other hand, a smooth surface may reflect more light, making the paint appear lighter.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that paint can look different on walls than it does in the can or on a paint swatch. It’s always a good idea to test a small area before committing to a larger project, and to consider the lighting, texture, and color of the wall when selecting paint.

What wall colors grab your attention?

Bold and bright wall colors can grab your attention and add a pop of personality to a space. Colors like red, orange, and yellow are energetic and eye-catching, while blues and greens are calming and serene. Neutral colors like beige, gray, and white can also make a statement, depending on the shade and finish.

Should walls be eggshell or satin?

When it comes to choosing between eggshell and satin finishes for interior walls, it really depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the space. Eggshell finishes have a low-sheen and soft texture that can give walls a subtle and elegant look. They are also durable enough to stand up to normal wear and tear, making them a good choice for most interior spaces.

Satin finishes, on the other hand, have a higher sheen and a slightly more reflective surface than eggshell finishes. This can give walls a slightly more polished look, but can also make surface imperfections more visible. Satin finishes are also more durable than eggshell finishes, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and stairwells.

Ultimately, the choice between eggshell and satin finishes comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the space. If you’re looking for a subtle and elegant look, and the walls don’t see a lot of wear and tear, eggshell may be a good choice. If you’re looking for a slightly more polished look, or the walls are exposed to more wear and tear, satin may be a better option.

When should you not use eggshell paint?

Eggshell paint is a popular choice for interior walls, as it has a soft, low-sheen finish that offers a subtle and elegant look. However, there are some situations where using eggshell paint may not be the best option. For instance, if you’re painting a high-traffic area, such as a hallway or stairwell, eggshell paint may not hold up well over time, as it can be easily marked or scuffed. In this case, a more durable finish, such as satin or semi-gloss, may be a better choice.

Additionally, if you’re painting a surface with a lot of imperfections, such as dents, cracks, or bumps, eggshell paint may not be the best option, as it won’t hide these flaws as well as other finishes. In this case, a flat or matte finish may be a better choice, as it will help to minimize the appearance of any surface imperfections.

Finally, if you’re painting a surface that is exposed to moisture or humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen, eggshell paint may not be the best option, as it can be prone to mildew growth. In these situations, a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish may be a better choice, as they are more resistant to moisture and can be easily wiped clean.

What type of paint hides imperfections best?

If you’re looking for a paint that hides imperfections well, a flat or matte finish may be your best option. These finishes have a low-sheen and smooth texture that helps to minimize the appearance of surface imperfections, such as dents, cracks, and bumps. Flat and matte finishes are also great at absorbing light, which can help to further hide any imperfections on the surface.

Another option is to use a textured paint, such as a stucco or sand finish. These paints have a rough and uneven texture that can help to hide imperfections on the surface. However, it’s important to note that textured paints can be more difficult to apply and may require a skilled painter to achieve the desired effect.

Finally, if you’re looking for a paint that hides imperfections well on a surface that is prone to wear and tear, such as a hallway or stairwell, a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish may be a better choice. These finishes have a higher sheen and can reflect light, which can help to minimize the appearance of surface imperfections.

If you’re feeling unsure about which color or paint type to choose, give us a call. At Willard & Ward Pro Painting, we can take the overwhelm out of choosing the right color by offering our professional opinion, backed by 35+ years of experience.