How To Select The Right Paint Color EVERYTIME!

Don’t let your fear of color keep you from having a beautiful home!

Painting and Color Selection are the most important elements of a successful decorating project. I am always somewhat surprised when I walk into a home full of beautiful furnishings and see cold stark white walls! White does not go with everything. In fact, white can detract from your wall decor and quite simply looks cold and sterile. Don’t get me wrong, a white on white theme is gorgeous but most people don’t have all white furnishings! Many of my clients have exquisite taste but are terrified of making the wrong color selection when it comes to paint. I have often wondered why... Have you ever heard of a color phobia? It DOES exist, honest! The medical term is Chromophobia or Chromatophobia. The definition states ~ an abnormal fear of color or colors. Obviously this is felt on your subconscious level and you are completely unaware of it. I often thought some of my clients where just “color challenged.” Now I suspect a few may actually have this strange phobia. Of course it stems from childhood. Apparently there is a reason why we are drawn to specific colors while disliking others. We associate favorite color with happy memories and you can guess the rest. I say, ”who cares! Just pick a color you like!”It doesn't cost a penny. They mix it in the paint for FREE! If you struggle with selecting a palette here are a few quick and simple tips. For different colors within an open floor plan you will want to
Select colors within the same light value. Same position on the color palette.
Paint color to inside or outside corners. Never try to create a break in the wall that does not exist architecturally.
Determine a transition area when using bold color. This could be one wall which is painted a neutral color for the eye to rest. (Remember light values)
For a no-fail monochromatic schemes select color two or three shades away from each other on the palette.
Look very carefully at the darkest color on the palette. This is how you will determine the undertone of EVERY color!
ALWAYS bring home a color sample and view it in the room that will be painted! The color will not appear the same under the fluorescent lights in the store
If you have made a mistake in your selection, take the paint back! Ask that they suggest a way to tone it down.
If your color is too dark, you can mix in white paint yourself. (Be certain it is the same sheen). I hope this information is helpful as you begin your next painting project.
Good luck and Happy Painting!
Author Julie Rieman
Instructor ~The All About Redesign Center
www.allaboutredesign.com