How to Choose the Right Paint Color (Without Losing Your Mind!)

Christine at Making Home
February 11, 2025

Choosing a paint color should be fun, not a stress-inducing spiral into decision paralysis.

It’s tough, though! There’s a whole aisle of paint options (not to mention custom blends!) and the whole “it looks different on the wall” dilemma. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Take a deep breath… we’ve totally got this! Let’s break it down into 6 easy steps.

1. Start with Inspiration

Browse Pinterest, home design magazines, or even nature for colors that catch your eye. Save a few favorites and look for common themes. Are you drawn to warm tones, cool hues, or neutrals?

Here’s a fabulous neutral tone inspiration board. That wheat pallette is gorgeous!

2. Consider the Room’s Lighting

Natural light changes everything. A color that looks perfect in the store might turn into a completely different shade in your home. Test samples at different times of day to see how they shift.

3. Work with What You Have

If you’re not starting from scratch, consider your existing furniture, flooring, and decor. A color should complement, not clash with, what’s already in the space.

4. Sample Before You Commit

Buy sample cans of your top three choices and paint swatches on different walls. Or, use peel-and-stick paint samples for a no-mess trial run. This step is crucial!

5. Think About the Mood

Colors influence how a room feels. Soft blues and greens are calming, while bold reds and oranges add energy. Consider how you want the space to feel before locking in a choice.

6. Don’t Overthink It

There’s no perfect color, and paint is one of the easiest things to change. Worst case? You repaint. Best case? You love it and wonder why you ever stressed about it in the first place.

Pick a color, trust your instincts, and remember: you can always change it. Now, let’s get that paint roller… erm, rolling!

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