Choosing the right paint color for your home is one of the most common questions we get asked. People often send us digital images of their paint choices, hoping for a little guidance on which color will work best. Here’s the truth: paint colors look different in each room, and what worked perfectly in one home may not work in another. Factors like lighting, the size of the space, and existing decor can drastically change how a paint color will appear. But don’t worry—we’ve gathered our best tips for choosing paint colors to help you get it right every time.

1. Test Paint Colors in Your Space

The first rule of thumb when choosing the right paint color is never skip the sample test. Paint looks different in every room due to various factors like natural light and surrounding elements. We recommend testing your color samples right in the room where you plan to paint. This allows you to see how the color reacts in morning light, afternoon light, and evening light. By doing this, you’ll know for sure if you love the color in every part of the day.

2. Use Large Paint Samples with Samplize

One of the easiest ways to test multiple paint colors without buying several quarts of paint is by using Samplize. Samplize offers large, peel-and-stick paint samples that ship quickly and are true to color. These samples are a game-changer when you want to see a more accurate representation of how a color will look on your wall without committing to a whole can.

If your walls are currently painted another color, we recommend applying the paint samples to a large poster board. This allows you to see the sample in a true, clean space without any interference from the current wall color. This will make it much easier to visualize how the new color will look.

3. Consider Lighting and Room Features

Lighting can make or break a paint color. Natural light, especially, has a significant effect on how paint appears. For example, dark paint colors may feel cozy in a room with lots of natural light but could look too dark in a room that doesn’t get much sunlight. If you’re set on a dark, moody color, you’ll want to make sure your room has enough natural light or balance it with light accents to avoid making the room feel too enclosed.

Additionally, consider other elements in the room, such as flooring, furniture, and decor. For example, if you have dark wood floors, you may want to pair them with lighter paint colors to create contrast. On the other hand, if you want a color-drenched room in a deep shade, you may need to balance it with light ceilings or trim.

4. Study the Undertones of Your Paint Color

Every paint color has undertones—sometimes subtle, sometimes not so subtle. These undertones are especially important when choosing a neutral color like white, beige, or gray. If you overlook undertones, you might end up with a paint color that looks green, yellow, or pink instead of the warm or cool tone you were hoping for.\

To avoid this mistake, make sure to closely examine the undertones of your paint samples. Once you’ve got a sample, place it against a white poster board and look at it in different lighting conditions. Pay attention to how it interacts with the natural light in your room and whether it brings out any unexpected colors.

5. Evaluate the Room’s Size and Function

When choosing a paint color, think about how the room will be used. A small room might benefit from light colors to make it feel bigger, while a large room might look great with a darker, more dramatic hue. Also, consider the room’s function—whether it’s a cozy bedroom, a bright living room, or an office space. Some colors lend themselves better to relaxation, while others can energize a space.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Paint Colors

Selecting the right paint color for your home is a process—it’s about testing, evaluating, and imagining the paint under different conditions. By following these 5 essential tips for choosing the right paint color, you’ll be well on your way to creating a space you love.

Remember: Paint color is more than just the shade—it’s about how it works with your lighting, your space, and your lifestyle. Test before you commit, pay attention to undertones, and take your time to make sure you’re happy with the result. With a little patience, you’ll find the perfect paint color that brings your vision to life.

Ready to Find the Perfect Paint Color?

Are you about to dive into choosing a paint color for your home? Need help with color selection or finding the right products? Contact us today by filling out our design inquiry form—simply click on any green button on our website to get started. We’d love to offer personalized guidance and expert recommendations for your space. And don’t forget to sign up for our weekly newsletter on the front page of our website for more tips, inspiration, and exclusive updates!

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