Six Things You Need to Know Before Painting with Dark Colors
1. Before opening, shake the paint can well. Once you open the lid, stir the paint from the bottom up. Stir the paint frequently during use as the settling of its pigments is more pronounced with darker colors.
2. Paint several coats to eliminate streaking or shadowing. The more pigment a paint contains, the more coats it requires to get complete coverage. Begin with a primer (use a darker gray primer for dark wall colors) and create an even finish prior to applying the dark color.
3. Purchase all the paint you need at one time to assure there are no color variations throughout the project. Dark colors are not pre-made and can vary slightly in pigments from batch to batch. If you purchase single-gallon containers of paint, marry them together in a larger container to create a single source of paint. Save some of this as touch-up paint for later use.
4. To test a color at home, purchase a small amount of the color you are considering and apply it to a wall before buying gallons of the shade. Paint a patch on the way adjacent to trim floor and ceiling to see how the color looks and feels in the room Judge it during different time when the light varies.
5. Don’t skimp on quality. Superior paints offer better color retention and coverage that is particularly noticeable with darker colors. You may spend more on paint, but because they may require fewer coats, you’ll save on materials and labor.
6. Dark semi- and high- gloss paints accentuate a wall’s surface imperfections dramatically. Before painting the walls with the dark paint, correct their imperfections and then paint with a primer coat. Look again for flaws and correct any remaining problems. Prime the surface again until you have a nice coverage.
A few recommendations for dark and rich colors.
Mayflower red: This rich and earthy terra-cotta red is a great color for a dark yet warm and cozy room. It can be used in a contemporary setting and and looks great with light tans and grays. It also works very well in a Tuscan traditional decor when coupled with olive greens, deep browns, and yellow golds.
Deep Brown – This traditional brown goes hip with paired with crisp moldings. Accent it with fresh new colors such as blush and seagrass blue. Complete the look with solid color upholstered furniture accented with bold tone on tone prints for an upbeat and timeless look.
Lush Green – This color is perfect for a hot environment, because it is cool and restful. For a bold statement, incorporate a zebra hide-rug or black and white photography. For a more subtle effect, use shades of sage, moss, and lime.
Happy painting!
