Proper Paint Sampling
By Elizabeth Moser, Owner and Lead Designer at Empowered Designs, LLC
April 2021
This is important especially when picking neutrals. There are many variables that can greatly impact the color once the paint dries. These steps, tips and tricks can be the difference between having light, warm gray walls and cold light blue walls so listen in!
Let’s get sheen and product type out of the way. Obviously, the higher the sheen, the more light reflected and there are lots of details about paint formulas that effect durability. I consult my local paint pros for each project as to what sheen and exact product should be used. I let them know the color selection, the use of the space, and what the needs are (example: light grey in a living room that doesn’t have much natural light, young family so durability is important). The pros at the local paint shop know best about this stuff! Trust them!
Ok, back to sampling. YOU HAVE TO GET SAMPLES MADE IN THE EXACT PAINT FROM THE EXACT STORE YOU WILL BUY THE PAINT. A paint color will not be made the same between different stores and the chemicals and sheen will effect final the color.
I used the same color through most of my house but from two different paint stores that both said they carried the paint line that my color selection came from. The color is Moth Gray PPG 1024-4. It is a cool tan. One paint store added more blue so the color is gray instead of tan. The other store made a more accurate match. I love this example because the difference is very slight and yet this slight difference can be the difference between having gray walls versus light blue or purple.
Mungers Paint at MacArthur and NW 50th made the more correct match for my house paint. The staff is very knowledgeable and are always excited to help. A small detail that makes a big difference in my book is that they put the paint formula on the lid of the paint can instead of just a receipt.
I have seen companies coming out with wall stickers as a form of paint sampling. This can be a helpful visual tool, but if you are particular about the specific shade, this will not be accurate. DO NOT DO THIS IF PICKING NEUTRALS! These samples will not be accurate to the undertones that could come through in the color formula from the paint store. These wall stickers also don’t properly represent paint sheens.
Please don’t ever let yourself get too stressed about selecting the right color. Call me instead. Getting a true pro’s help with selections takes the stress out of the project and will save you $$$.
Remember to be EMPOWERED!
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.
Kind Regards,
Elizabeth Moser
Empowered Designs LLC, Owner and Lead Designer
Cell Phone
(405) 229-1913
Links
http://empowered-designs.com