Test a paint color in your room before buying gallons.

A color that looks perfect in the store can look quite different beside your flooring or under an evening lamp. Before committing to a roomful of paint, compare a few samples at home. This planning exercise uses movable sample boards so you can judge the color without changing your walls.

What you’ll need

• Two or three paint samples or large color samples
• Smooth sample boards suitable for paint
• Small brush or roller
• Pencil
• Drop cloth
• Phone or notebook

Take it step by step

1. Choose a short list of colors. Write each color name and number on the back of its board before painting so similar shades do not get mixed up.
2. Protect your work surface. Apply liquid samples according to their label, including any required preparation, coats, ventilation, and drying time. Sample paint may require a separate finish coat when used on a permanent surface.
3. Let the boards dry fully. Place them upright near the wall, keeping them secure and out of walkways rather than judging wet paint on a tabletop.
4. Move each sample beside flooring, cabinets, curtains, and trim. Compare it in the intended room instead of relying on a phone photograph.
5. Look again in morning daylight, afternoon light, and with your normal evening lights switched on. Record what you like and dislike before making your choice.
6. Confirm the final paint product and sheen with the retailer. A color sample helps with color selection but does not demonstrate every property of the finished coating.

When to ask for help

Ask a paint professional for help if the actual walls have peeling paint, damp patches, staining, or an unknown old coating. Choosing a color will not resolve a surface-preparation problem.