Paint Colours and Finish: Tips to Pick the right Shade and Sheen

When I first started painting, I found choosing a paint colour to be the most difficult part. There are so many options out there and Pinterest is great for inspiration but can feel overwhelming. Have you ever felt that way? …well, today I would like to share some tips and tricks for choosing the proper paint color and finish for your projects. 

1. Test Before You Commit

Paint can look completely different once it’s on your walls versus on a tiny swatch. Light, shadow, and room size all play a role. 🪞Try painting large sample sections (at least 12" x 12") on a few walls in your space and observe them at different times of day. Morning light, evening light, and artificial light can each change the tone dramatically.

👉 Sheri’s Tip: Tape off a few squares next to each other so you can compare undertones, especially if you’re deciding between warm and cool shades.

Testing multiple paint colours and sheen directly on the wall and assessing in different lighting is helpful!

2. Match the Finish to the Function

Each paint finish (sheen level) has a purpose:

• Flat or Matte: Great for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and ceilings, also hides imperfections but harder to clean.

• Eggshell or Satin: The sweet spot for most homes:  slightly washable, ideal for living rooms, hallways, and kids’ rooms. I have used egg shell finish throughout my home.

• Semi-Gloss or Gloss: Best for trim, doors, and bathrooms because its durable and easy to wipe down.

👉 My Tip: I like to keep walls in eggshell and use semi-gloss for trim; it gives just enough contrast to define the space without being too shiny.

My most recent project- I used an eggshell finish for my daughers room. Easy to clean and keep looking nice!

3. Consider Undertones and Lighting

That “neutral” beige might pull pink or yellow depending on your bulbs or surrounding decor. Before you buy gallons of paint, compare how your color interacts with your flooring, fabrics, and wood tones.

👉 My Tip: If your room gets a lot of natural coastal light (like ours in BC), cooler tones like soft grays or muted greens will balance the warmth, while darker rooms benefit from warmer neutrals that add depth.

I hope this helps you with your next project. Do you have any additional tips to add? I would love to hear from you! 

Happy Painting! 

Sheri