Picking out a brand-new hue can be nerve-wracking, especially when you realise how different a shade can look in morning sunlight versus evening lamplight. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps and insider tips so your final colour choice feels spot-on.
Understand the basics of paint testing
Your goal is to see how that colour behaves under the unique combination of lighting, furniture, and décor in your space. A quick online search might show you trending colours, but your home’s lighting, and your personal style, ultimately call the shots.
Lighting matters: See your paint in different light
Paint can shift dramatically depending on sunrise light, midday glare, or evening lamp glow. One soft grey might become almost cream in the afternoon but lose its warmth under cool LED bulbs at night. That’s why painting test patches in different spots is key.
How mood shapes colour choice
Colour can change how you feel in a room. Blues and greens typically soothe, while reds and yellows energise. If you’re curious how that translates to your own living area, you might find some fresh insights in paint colors and mood. Testing the colours you’re drawn to will confirm if they align with the vibe you want.
Gather your paint testing tools
Before painting even a dab, it helps to have the right supplies on hand. You can pick up sample pots of your favourite shades and paint tools from most hardware or DIY stores.
Sample pots and swatches
- Many brands offer small testpots that let you paint a decent section of your wall.
- If you prefer not to mark up the wall directly, large cards (A4 or bigger) come in handy. Resene, for example, suggests painting test swatches on a card with a white border so you can move them around the room.
Walls or large cardboard
- Painting directly on the wall is the most accurate because you’ll see the exact texture beneath the colour.
- Some folks like to prime or paint a small 2-square-foot patch, applying at least two coats to replicate the final look. This can help you avoid the dreaded “colour regret.”
Observe your colour in action
Once you’ve painted your swatches, it’s time for a little patience. Colours shift with different lighting, so give yourself at least a full day (or two) to observe how things change throughout morning, midday, and evening.
Compare colours in daylight and lamp light
Look closely at each test patch around noon when the sun is bright, and again in the evening when the room is lit by lamps. If something feels off, trust your instincts and try a different shade.
Evaluate your colour with your décor
Consider your existing furniture, rugs, and art. A perfectly lovely paint colour can clash if it fights against your couch or throw pillows. Sometimes it helps to design with intention, letting yourself choose a paint colour that matches how you want to feel in the room. You’ll avoid regrets when you see it harmonise with the bigger picture.
Tips to prevent colour regret
Painting can be adventurous, but oversights might leave you frustrated. Here’s how to prevent common pitfalls:
Trust your instincts
If you find yourself staring at a test patch and saying, “Hmm, not sure,” listen to the hesitation. Professional painters help homeowners navigate overwhelming palettes. If you’re feeling stuck, you can consult with us.
Next steps before painting your entire room
Testing a paint colour might seem like a chore, but it’s the best way to ensure you won’t lug home ten gallons of paint you’ll later regret. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Gather sample pots or swatches of the colours that catch your eye.
- Paint small patches (preferably with two coats) either directly on the wall or on large movable cards.
- Observe the colour through different lighting: morning, midday, and evening.
- Compare the test patches with your furniture, artwork, and accessories.
- Make sure the vibe fits how you want to feel in that room.
Check out paint colors to make a room look bigger if you’re also looking to maximise your space. You’ll see how lighter neutrals, mirrors, and clever layouts can team up with colour to transform even the coziest rooms.
Above all, have fun experimenting. With these tips, you can test each paint colour fully and confidently say goodbye to colour regret before committing to a full paint job.