How to Pick the Right Paint Color (the First Time)
Let’s be honest, picking paint is one of those things that seems easy until you’re actually doing it. You bring home a dozen little swatches, tape them to the wall, and suddenly every beige looks green and every gray feels… blue? It’s wild how different paint can look once it’s in your space.
That’s why I’ve stopped relying on tiny paper samples and started using peel-and-stick paint swatches (made with real paint) instead. They make such a difference. You get a bigger sample, it goes right on the wall (no painting required), and you can move it around to see how the color behaves in different lighting. It’s such a simple switch, but it’s saved me from so many paint mistakes.
Here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the right color the first time:
Test multiple walls. Light hits differently depending on where the wall is. A color that looks warm and cozy on one wall might feel totally flat on another.
Check it throughout the day. Morning light, afternoon shadows, and evening lamps can all change the vibe. I like to peek at my samples over a couple of days before making a call.
Put it next to your trim and flooring. Sometimes a color looks perfect until it’s right next to that bright white baseboard or warm-toned wood floor. Seeing it in context helps avoid surprises.
Try at least 2–3 shades. Even if you’re set on a general color, comparing subtle undertones side by side makes it easier to spot the one that actually works in your space.
Don’t rush it. It’s tempting to just pick something and get started, but giving yourself a little time to sit with the samples really pays off.
Honestly, this has taken so much stress out of the process for me. When you get it right the first time, it makes everything else feel smoother.
So if you’re staring at swatches and feeling stuck, try testing a few peel-and-stick samples around the room. It’s such a small step that makes a big difference, and your walls will thank you.
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FAQ: Paint Colors In My House
“What paint color is that?” - A frequently asked question so I finally decided to put it somewhere beside my IG highlight bubble! As a reminder paint looks different depending on the light, room, time of day, etc so I always recommend painting swatches in your space before you decide on a color.
Drum roll please….
BEDROOM : Field Trip by Clare
My Daughter’s Room: Lemon Chiffon, Cordovan and Reddened Earth by HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams
Top of wall and ceiling is Lemon Chiffon
Closet door and it’s trim are Cordovan
Bottom of walls and trim are Reddened Earth
Sheen is eggshell
Bedroom links here
TODDLER ROOM - 50% of Malted Milk by Sherwin Williams
This is a beigey-pink. If I could go back I would have done 100% of the color instead of cutting it 50%
Sheen is eggshell for ceiling and walls
Links for the room here
This is a great example of a color that look different depending on what side of the wall I’m photographing (ie next to the pink curtains or the wall directly opposite the big window.
