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It can be quite infuriating to see your walls covered in scruffs and various marks. It can destroy a room’s atmosphere. Fortunately, you can fix those problems by simply repainting the walls. However, that can become a problem when you’re trying to match the specific color.
The right color can change the whole look of the room. Color matching can be a very laborious job. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of tips on how to match paint color on walls in no time.
What does color matching mean?
Let’s be clear; color styling and color matching aren’t the same things. Color matching means matching specific hue to a previously set standard. It means replication of an existing color.
Some stores offer this type of matching through a computer program. They can recreate the same tone and hue with only a given image.
Factors affecting color matching
Light
It is essential to match the paint in broad daylight. Lighting from lamps and other artificial sources can alter the way a color looks. But it is advisable to avoid direct sunlight. Direct sun exposure can change the way you perceive the color. It can make it look a lot duller and faded than it actually is.
Undertones
When you want to color match, it is essential to know which undertones that exact color has. By knowing so, it will be easier for you to find the complementing color. Even if you don’t see the color, knowing the undertones can narrow it down. It is better to have a similar shade known.
Position of the paint chips
It is best if you place the color matching chips according to instructions. The biggest mistake people make when placing them is vertically matching a wall and horizontally when matching carpet colors. Don’t do that!
Tips on how to match paint color on walls?
Color-matching software
With the rise of the internet, many color manufacturers now have their websites and software to aid you. However, this method isn’t the best. Depending on the color and light settings on the computer, you can easily mismatch the color. But, they are good to help you narrow down the shade.
All you need to do is download the app or software. Then take a picture of the color and upload it. What’s also great is that you can customize your color palette. A large number of companies are starting to have their color-matching apps. And, instead of going to the store, you can download their app. You can browse through their collection of palettes and colors. This is how to match paint color with modern technologies.
Color-sensing Device
A spectrometer is another excellent device that can be used to measure and match the color. The only downside to it is that it can be quite expensive. However, there are similar devices that you can buy for less than a hundred dollars. This device is one of the newest technologies out on the market. Perhaps over time, it will become cheaper as the demand increases.
Get a real sample from your wall
Bringing a real sample is always a better alternative to software recognition. Depending on the type of phone and setting, it can distort the right color. That’s why it is better to bring a real parchment with the color. Simply scrape off a sample with a razor blade. Then peel the paint off the drywall. Take the piece to the manufacturer or the local paint store and ask for that specific shade. They will be more than happy to help.
Eyeballing the color
This method is excellent if you opt for a close match. If you want to paint an existing area, you will be unlikely to use this method. This process is useful if you’re going to cover up merely an inconspicuous area. You don’t have to worry so much if the location can’t be seen. Avoid doing this in places such as living rooms or any rooms meant for socialization.
Use the sample card
If you still hold the card, the paint came with, use it to find the manufacturer, and ask him for that exact color. If you don’t have a sample card, buy one from the paint store. Then list through the colors and find the one closest to it. You can also place the cards against the wall and see which shade is the closest to the wall color. It will be a faster solution.
Paint Chips
Go to the local paint store and buy a color hue chips. Then bring those chips and lay them on the surface you’re trying to match. Observe in multiple lights. If there is a chip that closely matches, buy color in the same chip.
How to match paint color with fabric-matching
If there is a fabric with the color you’re trying to match, bring the material to the local paint store and ask for that specific color. This is a cheap and effective way to find the color which closely resembles the desired hue. Ask the manufacturer for that same shade. This is better than to go to the paint store and choose from the limited color options there.
How to match the paint color? Tips and tricks.
Deep Cleaning
Before you match paint, make sure to clean the walls with water and detergent. That will reveal the actual color of the wall. Then, make sure that it is fully dry. After that, you can start with the color matching methods.
Daylight Color-Matching
Make sure that it is sunny outside. That way, you will be able to see the actual color of the paint. Avoid extreme sunlight, as sun rays can wash out the hues. You should also avoid artificial light. They can change the color of the paint. Knowing how to match paint color in broad daylight is crucial if you want to get that perfect shade.
Be wary of the position the chips
Place the chip on the same plane they will be used on. If you’re matching wall colors, place them vertically. If matching tables and floors, place them horizontally. A lot of people make mistakes when placing them. They think that the position plays no role in showing the color. However, if you hold the chip both vertically and horizontally to the wall, you’ll see that two different colors will show up. Now that you know how to match paint color, you won’t make this mistake.
Before you apply your paint, make sure to fill in any holes and depressions. Then use the paint. But, make sure to let the holes dry completely before painting the surface. Hopefully, this will help you how to match paint color like a professional. You can now enjoy your freshly painted walls. No one will notice that you have covered a spot or two.
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