Johnstones Paint Samples: Find Your Perfect Color!
Choosing the right paint color can feel like a Herculean task, right? You want your space to reflect your personality, to feel inviting, and, let's be honest, to look amazing. That’s where Johnstones paint samples come in super handy. These little pots of color are your secret weapon in the quest for the perfect hue. Let's dive into why they're so essential and how to make the most of them, because, guys, nobody wants to repaint an entire room because the color looked different on a tiny chip!
Why You Need to Sample Before You Commit
Okay, so you've seen a color you think you love. Maybe it's online, in a magazine, or on a tiny paper swatch. But here's the deal: colors can look wildly different depending on the lighting in your home, the other colors in the room, and even the time of day. That dreamy, soft blue you saw online might look cold and harsh in your living room. Avoid costly mistakes by sampling first.
Lighting is Key: The amount of natural light your room gets significantly impacts how a color appears. A south-facing room will have warmer light, while a north-facing room will have cooler light. Artificial light also plays a role. Incandescent bulbs cast a warm glow, while LED lights can be cooler. Paint a sample and observe it throughout the day and night to see how the color shifts.
Consider Your Existing Decor: Your furniture, flooring, and accessories all contribute to the overall color scheme of your room. A paint color that looks great in isolation might clash with your existing decor. Sample the paint and hold it up against your sofa, curtains, and rugs to ensure it complements everything else in the space.
The Power of Undertones: Every color has undertones, subtle hints of other colors that can significantly affect the final result. A seemingly neutral gray might have blue, green, or purple undertones that become more apparent when applied to a large surface. Sampling allows you to identify these undertones and choose a color that works with your existing palette.
How to Use Johnstones Paint Samples Like a Pro
Alright, you're convinced that sampling is the way to go. Awesome! Now, let's talk about how to use those Johnstones paint samples effectively. It's not as simple as slapping some paint on the wall and hoping for the best. Follow these steps to get the most accurate representation of the final color.
1. Prep Your Surface: Before you even open the paint can, make sure the surface you're painting is clean and primed. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and that the color is true. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the wall, and apply a coat of primer if necessary.
2. Choose the Right Location: Don't just paint a tiny square in a random corner. Choose a location that gets a good amount of light and is representative of the entire room. Ideally, paint a large enough area (at least 2ft x 2ft) so you can get a good feel for the color.
3. Apply Two Coats: One coat of paint is never enough to get an accurate representation of the color. Apply two coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This will ensure that the color is fully developed and that you're seeing the true shade.
4. Observe the Color at Different Times of Day: As we mentioned earlier, lighting plays a huge role in how a color appears. Observe the painted sample at different times of day and under different lighting conditions. How does it look in the morning light? How does it look under artificial light at night? This will give you a comprehensive understanding of the color's versatility.
5. Live with It for a Few Days: Don't rush to make a decision. Live with the painted sample for a few days, and observe how it makes you feel. Does it create the atmosphere you're looking for? Does it complement your existing decor? Trust your gut, and choose the color that you love.
Exploring the Johnstones Paint Sample Range
Johnstones offers a fantastic range of paint samples, covering a spectrum of colors and finishes. Whether you're looking for a bold statement color or a subtle neutral, you're sure to find something that suits your taste. Let's take a look at some of the options available.
Color Families: Johnstones categorizes its colors into families, making it easier to find shades that complement each other. These families include neutrals, whites, blues, greens, yellows, reds, and purples. Within each family, you'll find a range of shades, from light to dark, warm to cool.
Finishes: The finish of your paint can also affect the overall look and feel of your room. Johnstones offers a variety of finishes, including matt, silk, eggshell, and gloss. Matt finishes are non-reflective and create a soft, velvety look. Silk finishes have a slight sheen and are more durable than matt finishes. Eggshell finishes are similar to silk finishes but have a slightly lower sheen. Gloss finishes are highly reflective and are typically used for trim and doors.
Specialty Paints: In addition to its standard range of paints, Johnstones also offers specialty paints for specific purposes. These include paints for kitchens and bathrooms, which are moisture-resistant and easy to clean, and paints for wood and metal, which provide a durable and long-lasting finish.
Where to Buy Johnstones Paint Samples
You can find Johnstones paint samples at most DIY stores and decorating centers. They're also readily available online, making it easy to browse the range and order samples from the comfort of your own home. Many retailers offer sample pots in various sizes, so you can choose the amount that's right for your project. Don't be shy about asking for help! The staff at your local paint store can offer valuable advice and guidance on choosing the right colors and finishes for your home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Paint Samples
Even with the best intentions, it's easy to make mistakes when using paint samples. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Not Preparing the Surface Properly: As we mentioned earlier, prepping the surface is crucial for getting an accurate representation of the color. Make sure the surface is clean, primed, and free of any imperfections.
Painting Too Small of an Area: Painting a tiny square won't give you a good feel for the color. Paint a large enough area (at least 2ft x 2ft) so you can see how the color looks in different lighting conditions.
Only Applying One Coat: One coat of paint is never enough to get an accurate representation of the color. Apply two coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Not Observing the Color at Different Times of Day: Lighting plays a huge role in how a color appears. Observe the painted sample at different times of day and under different lighting conditions.
Rushing to Make a Decision: Don't rush to make a decision. Live with the painted sample for a few days, and observe how it makes you feel. Trust your gut, and choose the color that you love.
Maximizing Your Investment in Paint Samples
Okay, let's be real, paint samples aren't free. But they're a way better investment than repainting an entire room because you hated the color! Here’s how to get the most bang for your buck:
- Plan Your Palette: Before you even buy a single sample, have a general idea of the colors you're drawn to. Are you going for a warm and cozy vibe or a cool and modern look? Knowing your overall style will help you narrow down your choices and avoid wasting money on samples you'll never use.
- Don't Be Afraid to Mix and Match: Experiment with different color combinations. Try pairing a bold color with a neutral, or layering different shades of the same color. This can help you create a unique and personalized look.
- Use the Samples for Touch-Ups: Once you've finished painting your room, save the leftover paint samples for touch-ups. This will come in handy if you ever need to cover up scratches, scuffs, or stains.
- Recycle or Donate Unused Samples: If you have any leftover paint samples that you don't need, don't just throw them away. Recycle them at your local household hazardous waste collection center, or donate them to a local school or community organization.
Conclusion: Embrace the Power of the Sample Pot!
So there you have it, guys! Johnstones paint samples are your best friend in the quest for the perfect paint color. By sampling before you commit, you can avoid costly mistakes, create a space that reflects your personality, and ultimately, love the way your home looks and feels. So, grab those sample pots, get painting, and unleash your inner interior designer! Happy decorating!