Making Paint Colors Easy: Tips to Create a Home That Feels Like You!

Select paint colors like a pro…

You have an exciting task at hand! Picking the right color paint can be intimidating but you’ve come to the right place. Choosing paint colors should NOT be stressful! I’m here to help you navigate the process the easy way and a little bit of fun. With my years of experience renovating and designing homes, I know how overwhelming those paint aisles can be. There’s no need to struggle with a hard time picking colors, so let’s dive into a plan that makes it all so much easier! Having a plan and a little helping hand is all you need to find the perfect color! 

Step 1: Start with Inspiration! 

Before you set foot in a paint store, do a little homework on color choices. Dream a little! Browse Pinterest and Google to find rooms that resonate with you. What makes your heart beat a little fast? What grabs your eye? This is your home and you want to be in love with it after all. Narrow it down to a handful of shades you love. 

To break it down further, start with whatever you have in mind. Leaning toward a green? Look up ‘Best greens for bathroom’ (or whatever space you are working on!) and then start narrowing down what you like. If you really aren’t sure- you could search for ‘best living room colors to create a warm cozy space’ (Or describe whatever you want your house to feel like!) Save them. Create a Pinterest board, or even an album on your phone with images of the look you like. Once you have several images that will likely make it easier to guide you. If you are doing a full room, you’ll want to do a lighter or midtone color.

If you are drawn to midtone, consider techniques as well- do you love the look of a color drench? This is where everything, including the trim is the same color- you can color drench a single wall or a room.

Narrow in on your favorites. Once you have those, I want you to search that color specifically in the same places. For instance, If you chose 4 pics you love- see if you can find out what they are. Go to the blog post, the website, or even chat GPT to get the color name, then search for all of them like this: “Revere Pewter+ Living Room”.

Do each one. Study them all. ***As a reminder when you search this way it is NOT a guarantee that it will only show you that color, make sure it is that color, if you aren’t sure, don’t use it.***

 THIS will give you the very best idea as to what your room will look like because you get to see it in a variety of places, all different lighting, different exposures, ceiling height, etc. This way, you walk in with a plan and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Step 2: Build a Cohesive Palette

Think about the overall flow of your house. Choose a main lighter color, most likely a neutral that can run through most spaces, and then pick a few accent colors for special rooms like the dining room or powder room. It’s all about creating a harmonious feel that still has a little personality. I love a pop of classy color in a bedroom on the main wall, (especially true if you plan on doing a trim wall, but that’s not even necessary to wow!) Dark colors will give a dramatic touch in the right spaces, and often feel elevated and upscale when done right! 

Step 3: Don’t Stress About Brands

Did you know you don’t have to buy a Benjamin Moore color at a Benjamin Moore store? Most paint stores can match any color from any brand, so you have flexibility. Just let them know ‘this is a Benjamin Moore color’ (or ’Sherwin Williams‘) Some will argue it’s not 100% exact, but it’s close enough that you likely won’t notice the difference.

Step 4: Paint! 

It can be scary at first to see that color go up, but trust the process and see it through. If you have done your research before and have followed these tips, you should go with it and see how it turns out! I have never repainted a room before! 

Step 5: Test Lighting and Be Patient

Once you’ve painted, give yourself a few days to adjust. Different lighting can change how a color looks, so if it feels off, try different light bulbs before you make a final call. Fluorescent lighting is known to be a cooler, and sometimes washed out look. Newer ‘daylight’ bulbs are more balances and even. Remember, lighting changes everything!

Step 6: Pick the Right Finish

Choosing the right paint finish is just as important as picking the color itself. The finish you choose affects how the paint looks, how durable it is, and how forgiving it will be in your space. Here’s a quick guide:

• Flat / Matte: Beautifully soft, hides imperfections really well. Best for ceilings or low-traffic rooms, but not very washable.
• Eggshell: My go-to! A touch of sheen that still feels soft, but easier to clean than flat. Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and even hallways.
• Satin:  Has a bit more shine and is super durable. Great for kitchens, bathrooms, trim, or kids’ rooms where you’ll need to wipe walls down often.
• Semi-Gloss: Reflective, durable, and wipeable. Best for trim, doors, and cabinetry. Shows more imperfections, so make sure surfaces are prepped well.
• High Gloss: Bold, shiny, and dramatic. Gorgeous for a statement wall or lacquered look, but it will absolutely highlight every imperfection, which drives me crazy. 

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re painting an older home with uneven walls, avoid high gloss finishes. Stick to eggshell or satin for the most forgiving look.

Final Words:

Ultimately, this is your home and your space. Be brave, trust your instincts, and have fun with it. With a little preparation, you’ll create a home that truly feels like you. Now grab a glass of sweet tea and sit and enjoy your gorgeous new room! 

To Make this easier- here is a short, easy checklist to follow: 

Paint Color Checklist 

• Pick inspiration images.
• Choose a whole-house neutral.
• Add 2–3 accent colors.
• Test different light.