Leo Martínez
Matching paint without a sample can be tricky, but there are several methods to find a close match. Firstly, taking a picture of the original colour can help, especially if you take photos at different times of the day to account for lighting differences. Paint-matching apps can also be used to find the closest colour match, and some apps allow you to upload a photo to determine the closest paint brand match. Alternatively, if you're painting a wall, you can cut a small, inconspicuous square from the wall to take to the paint store for colour matching.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use of technology | Color-matching apps like Nix Mini 2, Datacolor ColorReader EZ, BEHR's Color Smart, Paint My Place, etc. |
| Sample collection | Take a small sample from an inconspicuous spot on the wall, behind an outlet cover plate, or from behind a door. |
| Lighting | Test paint samples in natural light near an open window or door at different times of the day. |
| Sample testing | Paint a minimum 12-foot by 12-foot square to observe the color match in different lighting conditions. |
| Sample comparison | Compare multiple samples to determine the closest match. |
| Paint mixing | Ask the paint store to mix a custom shade if needed. |
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What You'll Learn
Take a photo of the wall and bring it to the paint store
Taking a photo of the wall and bringing it to the paint store is a great way to match paint without a sample. Most smartphones have high-definition cameras, which can capture a colour sample of an existing wall. This method is effective and simple, as it does not require downloading an app, finding a swatch, or cutting out a piece of the wall.
When taking the photo, ensure the room is illuminated with natural light to achieve the best results. Then, bring the photo to your local paint store, where they will use their in-store spectrophotometer to closely match the colour. This method may not yield a perfect match due to variations in colour display on smartphone cameras, but it should provide satisfactory results if you are not aiming for an exact match.
It is worth noting that some paint stores, particularly larger chains, use a computer to "photograph" a paint sample, which may not always result in an exact match. In such cases, consider visiting a smaller hardware or paint store, which typically employs an "eye-match" person. These specialists can help select the correct sheen and custom-make a matching paint for you.
Additionally, there are colour-matching apps available, such as the Nix Mini 2 or Datacolor ColorReader EZ, that can be used in conjunction with your phone's camera to identify the closest paint colour match. Paint companies and home improvement stores also offer mobile apps to help with paint matching. By using these apps, you can snap a photo of the wall, upload it, and receive the manufacturer's best colour matches.
While taking a photo of the wall and bringing it to the paint store is a convenient option, it is important to be aware of the limitations due to colour variations on smartphone cameras and lighting conditions. For a more accurate colour match, consider using a physical sample, such as a paint chip, fabric swatch, or a small piece of drywall from an inconspicuous spot on the wall.
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Use a colour-matching app
If you're unable to obtain a paint sample to colour-match at your local paint store, you can use a colour-matching app to find the closest matching paint colour. There are several apps available for this purpose, including:
- Nix Mini 2: This app uses a small portable sensor to identify the closest known paint colour match for any object or surface in your home.
- Datacolor ColorReader EZ: Similar to the Nix Mini 2, this app uses a small portable sensor to find the closest paint colour match.
- Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio®: This app allows you to apply paint colours to photos of your space, access fan decks, and match your favourite hues to Benjamin Moore colours. You can also use your phone's camera to instantly find equivalent Benjamin Moore paint colours for any object or surface.
- ColorSnap® Match: This app connects to the ColorSnap™ Match Pro or ColorSnap™ Match paint matching tools (sold separately at Sherwin-Williams Stores) for easy, on-the-spot colour matching. It allows you to scan the colour of a flat surface and match it to the closest Sherwin-Williams paint colour.
- FindPaintColor: Available for iPhone users, this app helps you find the closest matching standard paint colour to your wall colour.
While these apps can provide a convenient way to match paint colours without a sample, it's important to note that app colour matching may not always be exact and can be a few shades off. Additionally, variations in lighting, texture, and phone screens may impact the accuracy of the colour match. Therefore, it is recommended to test the paint against your current colour before painting the entire surface to ensure a satisfactory result.
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Take a small paint sample to the store
Taking a small paint sample to the store is a reliable way to match paint without a sample pot. Firstly, you'll need to cut a small paint chip from your wall. Aim for a low-visibility spot, such as behind an electrical outlet cover. Use a utility knife to gently cut out a small, 1-inch square of dried paint.
Then, take this paint chip to your local paint store, where technicians will use a spectrophotometer to analyse the chip and match it to their brand's closest colour. This method is preferable to using a colour-matching app, as apps are affected by variations in colour display on smartphone cameras.
However, it's worth noting that even with a paint chip, it can be challenging to achieve an exact colour match. Paint matching to touch up spots on a wall is almost impossible, as tint machine tolerances are not tight enough to get exact results. Additionally, big-name paint brands may not be able to reproduce a trademarked colour.
If you're unable to take a paint sample from your wall, you can always remove a drawer and take it to the paint store to be colour-matched.
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Observe paint samples in multiple lights
Observing paint samples in multiple lights is a crucial step in the paint-matching process. Light significantly impacts the appearance of colours, and paint colours can vary under different lighting conditions. Therefore, it is essential to examine paint samples under various lighting scenarios to ensure the desired colour consistency.
Firstly, it is important to understand how lighting affects colour perception. The amount of natural light and the time of day play a significant role in how paint colours appear. Colours may appear more vibrant and saturated in well-lit rooms, while they can seem darker and less intense in dimly lit spaces. Therefore, observing paint samples under different lighting conditions throughout the day is essential.
To effectively evaluate paint samples in multiple lights, consider the following approaches:
- Utilise large, movable colour samples: These samples can be easily repositioned to observe how the paint colour changes according to lighting and time of day. Interior designers often use movable paint samples to avoid messy paint swatches on walls. Foam core poster boards are an excellent option for creating large, movable swatches.
- Observe samples in different parts of the room: Place the samples near windows, in areas with varying amounts of natural light, and near artificial light sources. This will help you understand how the paint colour interacts with different lighting conditions.
- Compare samples with existing colours or furniture: If you are painting a specific room, observe the samples near the woodwork, trim, or any existing colours or furniture. This will help you visualise how the paint colour complements its surroundings.
- Test samples on different walls: Paint colours can appear different on various walls due to factors such as wall colour and proximity to windows. By testing samples on multiple walls, you can ensure the colour consistency you desire.
- Evaluate samples over a 24-hour period: Observe the paint samples throughout the day and night to see how the colour changes and reveals undertones. This will help you determine if you love the colour at all times of the day.
By following these suggestions, you can effectively observe paint samples in multiple lights and make an informed decision about your paint choice. This process ensures that you achieve the desired aesthetic and avoid wasting time and money on the wrong colour.
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Test the paint in an inconspicuous area
Testing paint in an inconspicuous area is a crucial step in the painting process, as it allows you to observe the colour in different lighting conditions and ensure that it is the correct shade before proceeding with the entire surface. Here are some detailed instructions on how to test paint in an inconspicuous area:
Locate an Inconspicuous Area
Before you begin testing your paint, it's important to choose an inconspicuous area that is not easily noticeable. If you're painting a wall, select a small section that can be easily covered up, such as behind an outlet cover plate or in a corner. For furniture, choose an area that is less visible, such as the backside of a chair skirt or the underside of a sofa.
Prepare the Test Area
Ensure that the surface you'll be testing on is clean and free of any debris. If necessary, use a screwdriver to remove outlet covers or light switch plates to access the wall underneath. Cut a small section of the existing paint or use a box cutter to gently peel away a sample, creating a smooth surface for your test paint.
Apply the Test Paint
Use a brush or a roller to apply the test paint to the prepared surface. Be sure to use enough paint to create a decent-sized swatch, as small patches may not provide an accurate representation of the colour. Allow the paint to dry completely before inspecting it.
Observe the Test Paint
Examine the test paint at different times of the day and under various lighting conditions. Natural light, artificial light, and the absence of light can all impact the appearance of colour. Observe how the paint colour changes throughout a 24-hour period and take note of any undertones that may be revealed.
Compare and Adjust
Compare the test paint with your desired colour to ensure they are a close match. If necessary, consult a colour wheel or seek advice from a professional colour consultant to adjust the shade accordingly. Remember, lighting plays a crucial role in colour perception, so be sure to view the test paint in the specific lighting conditions of the area you plan to paint.
By following these steps and testing your paint in an inconspicuous area, you can make informed decisions about your paint choices and avoid costly mistakes. It's a crucial step in the painting process that ensures the final result will be aesthetically pleasing and true to your desired colour scheme.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a colour-matching app like Nix Mini 2 or Datacolor ColorReader EZ, which identify the closest paint colour match. You can also take a picture of the wall under natural light and bring it to a paint store, although this won't give an exact match.
Take multiple pictures at different times of the day as lighting changes can affect the paint colour. Hold up a true white piece of paper or cardstock to help your camera to automatically correct the colour balance.
Test the paint in an inconspicuous area to make sure it's a good match. Differences in lighting and cameras can make digital paint matching imprecise. If one sample is a match early in the day and another matches better in the evening, ask the paint store to mix a shade in between.
If your project involves drywall, you can cut out a small, inconspicuous square from behind an outlet cover plate and take it to the paint store to be colour-matched.
