We shared tips for choosing paint color in a past blog “Prime Yourself to Paint.” But what happens when you want to try something REALLY bold – whether it’s paint, tile, cabinets or fabric – but you’re afraid to commit?
Here are THREE WAYS to conquer your fear of color:
1. TRY SOME SAMPLES
It can be hard to visualize new color in a room when you’re working from a tiny paint chip. If this rings true for you, purchase small samples of two or three paint choices and brush them on 12” x 12” pieces of primed plywood or poster board to make larger sample boards.
Leave sample boards and fabric swatches in the intended room(s) and view them throughout the day. See how light affects each color. The paint chip, wood stain, tile or fabric you may love under the florescent lights of the store will almost always look different at home.
If you’re considering bold cabinetry or tile, ask for a sample board to take home for a week or so.
If it’s a daring sofa color, ask to borrow or purchase a large swatch of the fabric.
2. TACKLE SOMETHING SMALL
Try testing your bold color on a smaller space rather than committing to larger rooms and surfaces.
A pantry door, front door, powder bathroom or accent wall are great places to play with color.
Painting a smaller area means less time and money spent on your experiment, and it’s often easier to repaint if you don’t like it.
3. ADD COLORFUL CONTRAST WITH ACCESSORIES
Don’t worry if you’re not ready to let go of your beige walls. In fact, neutral palettes are ideal for making bold colors pop.
It’s fairly low risk to add color with bar stools. Using a rainbow of hues adds energy and personality galore to this Northern Colorado kitchen. They also pick up the bold colors found in the tile back splash.
Using a single accent color for these bar stools creates sophisticated interest in an Old Town Fort Collins remodel.
It’s easy to update colorful accessories, like coverlets and throw pillows, if the mood strikes or your tastes change.
