How to Test Paint Colours the Right Way

March 6, 2025

Finding the Perfect Paint Colour: The Secret to Getting It Right

So, you've got a vision. A fresh coat of paint, a brand-new vibe for your home. But before you grab that brush and go all in, there's one little thing that can make or break your masterpiece—the colour. Picking the perfect shade isn't just about pointing at a swatch and hoping for the best. Colours look different under natural daylight than they do under your cosy, warm-toned lamps. Then there's the finish—matte, satin, gloss? Let's make sure you get it right the first time.

Always Sample Before You Commit

You don’t pick a new couch without sitting on it first, right? The same logic applies to paint. Buying sample pots and testing them on your actual walls is non-negotiable. Paint swatches can be deceiving, and what looks perfect on a tiny card could feel completely different when it’s covering an entire room.

Apply a few test patches in different areas of your space—near windows, next to furniture, and on shadows as well as sunlit walls. Give it a full 24 hours, observing how the shades shift from morning light to evening ambience.

Consider Your Lighting

Light is sneaky. It changes how colours look depending on the time of day and the type of bulbs in your space. Natural light will highlight blue and green undertones, while artificial lighting can pull out yellows and reds. Knowing this can save you from wondering why your soft grey suddenly feels blue at night.

One trick? Try testing a lamp with the same bulb temperature that you usually use and see how your sample walls look under it.

Check It Against Your Décor

That beautiful misty green you adore? It might clash with your lounge suite. Before committing, bring out your cushions, curtains, and even flooring samples to see how the colour interacts with them. Using neutral base tones in your main spaces allows accent colours in furnishings to shine without overwhelming the aesthetic.

Know Which Paint Suits the Job

Every paint type has a purpose, and picking the correct one will make sure your results look great for years to come. A heavy-traffic area like a hallway? You’ll want something washable. Kitchens and bathrooms? Opt for a mould-resistant formula.

Haymes Interior Paint has options for every space, ensuring that whether you're painting a cosy lounge room or a hardworking family kitchen, there's a finish that's durable and beautiful.

Look at the Finish

If you've ever had a moment of regret because your choice of flat paint ended up looking dull or, even worse, impossible to clean, you know that finish matters. Here's what you need to know:

Matte: Best for low-traffic areas where imperfections need to be hidden.
Satin: Slightly more durable with a subtle sheen—great for living rooms and bedrooms.
Gloss: Highly durable and perfect for doors, trims, and spaces that see a lot of action.

Want that professional finish? Haymes Paint Prep-Coat ensures an even base so your topcoat lives up to its full potential.

Balance Trends with Longevity

Trends are fun, but if you're spending time and money to paint your space, you want something you'll love beyond the current season. Earthy neutrals and soft blues never go out of style, while deep tones are best suited as feature walls. If you're drawn to trendy colours, consider using them in décor, cushions, or artwork instead.

Get Expert Advice

Still not sure? That’s where your local paint experts come in. At Strathalbyn H Hardware’s Paint Shop, we know that picking paint is a decision you don’t want to regret. Whether you need help choosing between two shades or want to mix a custom colour, we've got you covered.

Visit us in-store, grab a few sample pots, and start your painting journey with confidence.

Happy painting!

Candeece