Johnstones Paint Samples: Find Your Perfect Color
Choosing the perfect paint color for your home can be both exciting and overwhelming, right guys? With countless shades and finishes available, it's easy to feel lost in a sea of options. That's where Johnstones Paint Samples come in handy! They allow you to test different colors in your own space before committing to a whole gallon. This article will dive deep into the world of Johnstone's paint samples, exploring their benefits, how to use them effectively, and why they're an essential tool for any home decorating project. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let's get started on your color journey!
Why Use Paint Samples?
Before we get into the specifics of Johnstone's paint samples, let's talk about why using paint samples, in general, is a fantastic idea. I mean, seriously, skipping this step is like ordering a pizza without knowing the toppings – you might end up with something you really don't like!
- Seeing the Color in Your Space: The color you see on a paint chip in the store can look drastically different on your walls at home. Lighting, existing décor, and even the time of day can influence how a color appears. Paint samples allow you to see the color in your actual living environment, ensuring it complements your furniture, flooring, and lighting.
- Avoiding Costly Mistakes: Imagine painting an entire room only to realize you absolutely hate the color. That's a lot of wasted time, effort, and money! Paint samples are a relatively inexpensive way to avoid these costly mistakes. For a few bucks, you can test multiple colors and choose the one that truly resonates with you.
- Testing Different Sheens: Color isn't the only factor to consider when choosing paint. The sheen, or finish, also plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of a room. Johnstone's offers a variety of sheens, from matte to gloss, each with its own unique properties. Paint samples allow you to test different sheens to see which one best suits your needs and preferences.
- Living with the Color: Sometimes, a color might look great initially, but after a few days, you start to notice things you don't like about it. Paint samples give you the opportunity to live with the color for a while, observe it in different lighting conditions, and make sure you truly love it before committing to a full-scale painting project.
All About Johnstones Paint Samples
Okay, now that we've established the importance of paint samples, let's zoom in on what Johnstones has to offer. Johnstone's is a well-known and respected brand in the UK, offering a wide range of high-quality paints and decorating supplies. Their paint samples are designed to provide an accurate representation of their colors, allowing you to make informed decisions about your paint choices. Johnstone's understands that choosing the right color is a big deal, and they want to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.
- Wide Range of Colors: Johnstone's boasts an extensive color palette, from classic neutrals to vibrant hues. Their paint samples are available in almost every color they offer, giving you plenty of options to explore. Whether you're looking for a calming blue for your bedroom or a bold red for your living room, Johnstone's has a color to suit your style.
- Accurate Color Representation: Johnstone's paint samples are formulated to accurately represent the colors in their full-sized paint cans. This means you can trust that the color you see in the sample will be the same color you get when you paint your walls. This is crucial for avoiding disappointment and ensuring a consistent look throughout your home.
- Convenient Sample Pots: Johnstone's paint samples typically come in small, convenient pots that are easy to use and store. These pots contain enough paint to cover a small area, allowing you to get a good sense of the color on your walls. The pots are also resealable, so you can save any leftover paint for touch-ups or future projects.
- Easy to Purchase: You can purchase Johnstone's paint samples from a variety of retailers, including DIY stores, decorating centers, and online retailers. This makes it easy to get your hands on the samples you need, no matter where you live.
How to Use Johnstones Paint Samples Effectively
Alright, you've got your Johnstones paint samples in hand – awesome! But before you start slapping paint on the walls, let's go over some tips for using them effectively. Trust me, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring you get the most accurate and helpful results.
- Prepare Your Walls: Before applying any paint, make sure your walls are clean and dry. Fill any holes or cracks with spackle and sand smooth. This will create a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to.
- Prime the Area: If your walls are particularly dark or have been painted with a glossy finish, it's a good idea to prime the area where you'll be applying the paint sample. Primer will help the paint adhere better and ensure a more accurate color representation.
- Paint a Large Enough Area: Don't just paint a tiny square! Paint a large enough area (at least 2ft x 2ft) so you can get a good sense of the color. Consider painting multiple areas in the room to see how the color looks in different lighting conditions.
- Apply Two Coats: Apply two coats of paint to ensure full coverage and accurate color representation. Let the first coat dry completely before applying the second coat.
- Observe the Color in Different Lighting: This is crucial! Observe the paint samples at different times of the day and in different lighting conditions. Natural light, artificial light, and even the time of day can affect how a color appears.
- Live with the Color for a Few Days: Don't rush your decision! Live with the paint samples for a few days and observe how you feel about the color. Do you still love it after a few days? Does it complement your furniture and décor?
- Consider the Undertones: Pay attention to the undertones of the paint color. Undertones are subtle hues that can affect the overall look of the color. For example, a beige paint might have pink or yellow undertones. Understanding the undertones will help you choose a color that complements your existing décor.
Choosing the Right Sheen
As I mentioned earlier, the sheen of your paint can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a room. Johnstone's offers a variety of sheens, each with its own unique properties and best uses. Here's a quick rundown:
- Matte: Matte paint has a flat, non-reflective finish. It's great for hiding imperfections on walls and creating a soft, elegant look. However, it's not as durable or easy to clean as other sheens.
- Eggshell: Eggshell paint has a low-luster finish that's slightly more reflective than matte. It's a good choice for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. It's also more durable and easier to clean than matte paint.
- Satin: Satin paint has a smooth, velvety finish that's more reflective than eggshell. It's a good choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. It's also very durable and easy to clean.
- Gloss: Gloss paint has a highly reflective, shiny finish. It's very durable and easy to clean, making it a good choice for trim, doors, and cabinets. However, it can also highlight imperfections on walls.
When choosing a sheen, consider the room you're painting, the amount of traffic it receives, and the level of durability you need. Paint samples can also help you test different sheens to see which one you prefer.
Where to Buy Johnstones Paint Samples
Finding Johnstones paint samples is usually a breeze, guys! They're widely available at various retailers, making it super convenient to get your hands on them. Here's a breakdown of where you can typically find them:
- DIY Stores: Big DIY stores like B&Q and Homebase often carry Johnstone's paint samples. These stores usually have a dedicated paint section where you can browse through the available colors and pick up your samples.
- Decorating Centers: Decorating centers that specialize in paint and wallpaper are another great place to find Johnstone's paint samples. These centers often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right colors and sheens for your project.
- Online Retailers: Of course, you can also purchase Johnstone's paint samples online from various retailers. This is a convenient option if you don't have a DIY store or decorating center nearby. Just make sure to check the retailer's return policy before you buy.
- Johnstone's Trade Centers: If you're a professional decorator or painter, you can also find Johnstone's paint samples at Johnstone's Trade Centers. These centers are specifically designed to cater to the needs of trade professionals.
In Conclusion
So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to Johnstones Paint Samples! I hope this article has helped you understand the benefits of using paint samples, how to use them effectively, and where to buy them. Remember, choosing the right paint color is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be stressful. With Johnstone's paint samples, you can explore different colors, test different sheens, and find the perfect paint for your home. Happy painting, everyone!