Do you find yourself drawn to bold colored clothing and accessories? Are you the type of person that likes to stand out in a crowd? Have you found yourself emotionally charged by specific colors such as red, orange, or yellow? If you answered yes to any of these questions, why not expand that same passion to your home decorating? Here, you'll learn how to choose a paint color that is bold, beautiful, and daring, without fear!
White or neutral walls are safe and easy, but a bit boring for most of us. Yet, many of us become stuck in the 'white wall rut' because we are too intimidated to try that daring paint color that we truly love. Now is the time to change things up and take the plunge with bold color. Here's how:
Look for inspiration - To really see how you feel about color, check out your personal possessions. When you look at them, which ones make you feel the best? For example, I was able to find my inspiration through a very unusual form. For me, it is a terra cotta garlic cover that was purchased at Marshall's department store. The color palette is warm and inviting, the pattern is cozy and charming, and whenever I'm around it, I simply feel good. Thus, I knew that my bold color choices would be found in the warm color family.
Use that inspiration - Once you are able to find an object that inspires you, take it with you when go to buy paint. If your inspirational object is large, such as a bedspread, take a matching pillow sham. If it is a piece of furniture, try taking a coordinating pillow or throw. At the store, select one bold paint color from the object as your new primary room color. Most paint specialists can perfectly match colors from the object you bring in; however, remember that paint will dry darker on the wall so go a shade or two lighter.
Try it on for size - Before you spend a lot of money on a gallon of paint, ask for a sample of the color you've chosen. This will allow you to paint a small area of your wall at home, as a trial run. Give yourself a full 24 hours to try out the color, as it will look different at various times of the day.
Minimize the color load - If you feel the color you've chosen is simply too much of a good thing, there are ways to minimize the color load. Consider painting just the bottom section of the walls with the bold color, and lighten things on the top with a neutral or lighter shade. Or, if you prefer, paint one complete wall with the bold paint color, and paint the surrounding walls a lighter or neutral shade. Keep in mind that windows, doorways, mirrors, and artwork will also help break up color on the walls.
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Source: Personal experience
