Which Paint Colour Do I choose? Get it right the first time

Find attached your handy workbook. Download it and use it digitally, we have purposely designed it so it can be easily filled in. Or if you prefer to print it all out and put pen to paper....go for it.

There are sections, which you might want to take with you when you are heading to the shops. Or to have it open when you start researching your colours. 

It is your handy guide to keep you on track, so keep it close :)

An example of what your table should look like filled in. It can be found in your workbook.

A short introduction to module: 2

Tips on how to make your room feel more spacious and light.

Tips for making your room feel more welcoming and homely.

Tips for if you are wanting to create a more dramatic, yet cosy feel.

Tips for making your room feel more refreshing and calm.

Tips to follow if you are wanting your room to feel more contemporary and dramatic.

Understanding the orientation of your room and the natural light it receives throughout the day is indeed crucial when choosing paint colours. Different directions and times of day can greatly affect how colours appear in a space.

Work through your workbook and watch the videos. Once you have done this you will have a clear idea of which colours you need to be looking at and which colours to stay away from.

Tip: Once you have worked out which colour families you will be looking at. Print out this section of the workbook and have it with you when selecting the paint, that way you stay on track and do not get distracted by another colour.

This slide demonstrates how natural light can effect the paint colours you choose in any given room, depending on it's position. This table is also available in your workbook.

North-facing rooms do require thoughtful consideration due to the cooler, indirect light that these spaces typically receive. This light tends to create a dimmer, more shadowed environment, often with a slight blue or gray undertone. To counteract this, it’s best to opt for warmer, lighter colors that can brighten up the space and add a sense of warmth. Shades like creamy whites, soft yellows, warm beiges, and blush pinks can help reflect light and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere

Examples of colour pallets that work well in East facing rooms.

Painting an east-facing room can present unique challenges and opportunities, as the quality and direction of light can influence how colors appear on the walls. Here are some tips to consider when painting an east-facing room:

Tip: Use reflective finishes: Choosing paint with a satin or eggshell finish can help reflect light, making the room appear brighter and more spacious. Avoid matte finishes, as they can absorb light and make the room feel darker.

Examples of paints colours that work very well in all South facing rooms.

South-facing rooms receive direct sunlight for the majority of the day. This means colours will appear brighter and more intense compared to rooms with less natural light. Consider how different hues will react to the sunlight and choose colours accordingly.

Tip: While lighter colours are often preferred for the walls in south-facing rooms, you can add depth and interest by incorporating richer accent colours for trim, furniture, or accessories. Deep blues, earthy greens, or warm browns can create a striking contrast against lighter walls.

Examples of colours that work well in West facing rooms at any given time of the day.

West-facing rooms receive sunlight during the afternoon and evening, which tends to be warmer and more intense compared to morning light. Keep in mind how this sunlight affects the colours you choose. Warm colours may appear even warmer under this sunlight, while cooler colours may help balance the warmth

Tip: Cool colours like blues, greens, and purples can help counterbalance the warmth of afternoon sunlight in a west-facing room. 

Once completing this module you will have a better understanding of what artificial lighting is available to you. What type of ambient 'colour' you require to benefit your room and complete the feel. Also which bulbs are best suited for your room.

A quick reference table which is also available in your workbook. The table will let you quickly and easily see what type of artificial lighting you require.

A quick reference table - also available in your workbook which demonstrates the Kalvin lighting table, which measures the 'colour' of all LED bulbs.

This module is concise yet informative, providing essential insights into the concept of feature walls.

You'll learn about the benefits and potential drawbacks of incorporating a feature wall into your design. We'll cover various types of feature walls, such as those using bold paint colours, textured wallpapers, or unique materials like wood or stone. Additionally, you'll gain tips on selecting the right wall to feature and how to balance it with the rest of your room's decor.

While deciding whether to create a feature wall is ultimately a personal choice, this module aims to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision.

Once completing this module, you will be able to pull all of the information you have learned and  apply it directly to your own home.  Not only that I will be showing you a really quick and easy way to double check you have chosen the right colours for our home. Before you buy any sample pots.

The solution table, this little table (also available in your workbook) really is a life saver and will stop any confusion or overwhelm in it's tracks.

Quite simply your next few steps to ensure that you painting goes off without any problems and you are fully satisfied, proud and inspired with your paint job.

A round up of everything we have covered in the course and I give you a few more references on where you can get some more DIY tips that have come straight from myself who has been practising  Interior Design for over 20-years now.

This is a great printable for you to keep alongside the workbook. It has tried and tested colour pallets for when ever you just need a quick solution. It also gives you a clear description of the different types of finishes now available and what they are best suited for.

This extensive workbook follows the course, but in a lot more detail and gives you space to do some of the exercises I strongly suggest through-out the course.

The work book can printed out, which makes it a great resource to have on hand when ever you take on new painting projects.