Notes: how to transform the paint industry with a brilliant idea

Drew Scott, a West Elm stylist and DIY enthusiast known as Lone Fox, emphasizes the transformative power of paint in home decor. Through his popular YouTube, TikTok, and blog platforms, Scott shares various DIY projects, ranging from IKEA hacks to upcycling tutorials. His approach often involves simple household items and basic crafting tools, alongside paint, to achieve significant design updates. This article outlines three distinct paint-based DIY projects developed by Scott, offering step-by-step instructions for each. The first project details how to achieve a ceramic paint finish using a mixture of baking soda and household paint. This technique is ideal for updating vases or other decorative objects, imparting the look of unglazed Mediterranean pottery. The recommended ratio is 1:1 baking soda to paint, allowing for adjustments to achieve desired texture. Scott suggests applying the mixture with a brush, letting it dry, and adding a second coat if necessary. For an aged effect, a thin layer of mud can be applied once the paint is dry, then wiped off. This project is characterized by its quick execution, typically taking 30 to 45 minutes, and high visual impact, making it suitable for those seeking a fast decor refresh. The second technique described is a "terrazzo" finish, designed to introduce retro design elements into a space. This project involves creating paint swatches on wax paper, allowing them to dry overnight until fully cured, and then peeling and tearing them into organic, chip-like pieces. The chosen vase or object first receives two coats of a base color. Once dry, the paint "terrazzo" pieces are applied using Mod Podge, followed by a final sealing coat of Mod Podge. Scott highlights the critical importance of allowing the paint swatches to dry for a full 24 hours to ensure they peel and break apart cleanly, preventing frustration during the application process. The third and most extensive project involves transforming a chair to mimic a "leather" appearance using paint. This technique utilizes three shades of latex paint mixed with fabric softener to create depth and replicate the highlights and lowlights of leather patina. The fabric softener is crucial for maintaining the paint's workability and preventing it from drying too quickly. The process begins with thoroughly cleaning and prepping the chair, including applying painter's tape to areas not intended for painting and removing any fabric pilling. Equal parts latex paint and fabric softener are mixed for each color and then transferred to a spray bottle. The lightest color is applied first, followed by darker shades to add shadows and depth. Each coat requires approximately 24 hours to dry. For chairs with significant fabric texture, light sanding between layers may be necessary. Multiple coats are applied until the desired smooth, leather-like finish is achieved, ensuring durability and preventing color transfer. #DIYDecor #PaintTransformation #HomeImprovement #CreativeProjects #InteriorDesignHacks #Upcycling #BakingSodaPaint #TerrazzoTechnique #FauxLeatherChair

The house painting industry, valued at $37 billion annually, offers a viable entrepreneurial path with relatively low startup costs, potentially as little as $500. Brandon Lewis, founder of The Academy for Professional Painting Contractors, provides key insights and steps for individuals looking to establish a successful home painting business. The initial steps involve formalizing the business structure. Entrepreneurs must register their company, which entails choosing a legal structure such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation, as this affects tax liabilities and personal liability. Following this, securing an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is necessary for tax purposes and hiring. Checking state-specific registration requirements is also crucial, along with acquiring business insurance, a domain, and web hosting for a professional online presence. Investment in appropriate equipment is another foundational step. Essential tools include ladders, drop cloths, brushes, rollers, sprayers, and safety masks. Quality equipment is highlighted as important for achieving a professional finish and improving efficiency. Additionally, a branded vehicle for transportation serves as a mobile advertisement, enhancing the business’s visibility and reputation. Beyond equipment, strategic partnerships are vital for customer acquisition. Lewis suggests identifying and engaging with up to 100 influential businesses and professionals in the community, such as realtors, commercial property managers, roofers, gutter installers, and flooring installers. Maintaining consistent communication with these influencers through various channels is recommended for effective referral and lead generation. Developing clear marketing messages, referred to as “talking points,” is essential to differentiate a new painting business from competitors. These messages should emphasize aspects like warranties, guarantees, positive client reviews, and painter screening processes to demonstrate reduced risk and added value for potential customers. Persistency in following up with prospects is also critical, acknowledging that purchasing decisions for painting services can take several months. Entrepreneurs are advised to use robust pre-positioning, presenting, post-positioning, and follow-up tactics throughout the sales cycle. Establishing a precise pricing structure is fundamental. This involves determining three rates: production rates (time taken to paint a surface), pay rates (employee compensation), and charge rates (client hourly fees). Lewis emphasizes using these rates and formulas for accurate estimates rather than relying on guesswork. A significant piece of advice for painting business owners, who often have a technical background, is to dedicate time to studying the business aspects, including marketing, sales, operations, and management. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for long-term success and growth. Building and maintaining a professional portfolio by photographing completed projects helps attract future clients by showcasing work quality and a history of satisfied customers. Post-sale customer engagement is frequently overlooked but is paramount for repeat business and sustained profitability. Neglecting past clients leads to high customer acquisition costs and unpredictable business cycles. Continuous investment in marketing, including online strategies like email newsletters, retargeting ads, and local SEO, can attract new customers and reactivate old ones. Specific marketing tactics include social media advertising, SEO, email marketing campaigns, Google Ads, and content marketing to establish expertise and drive organic traffic. #PaintingBusiness #StartupAdvice #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessStrategy #MarketingTips #CustomerRelationshipManagement #EquipmentInvestment #LegalStructure

Portola Paints, a California-based company founded in 1998, offers distinctive paint lines that provide an old-world European aesthetic. Their signature product is a brush-applied, lime-based paint that dries to a subtle, chalky patina finish. The proprietary manufacturing process for this lime wash paint spans approximately two months, involving a curing period that allows the product to acclimate to its environment at their South Los Angeles factory before color infusion at their North Hollywood shop. This meticulous approach ensures the unique qualities of the paint. Traditionally, lime wash applications were limited to naturally porous surfaces such as plaster, cement, and stucco. Recognizing that modern homes often feature drywall, Portola Paints developed a specialized primer designed to impart the necessary texture or "toothiness" to conventional walls, enabling proper adhesion of their lime wash paints. For areas prone to moisture or splashes, like bathrooms, they also provide a top coat and sealer. While water contact will not damage the paint, it can result in visible water marks or streaks. Therefore, for those seeking a consistently pristine appearance, the primer and sealer are recommended additions to their order. Another popular offering from Portola Paints is Roman Clay, an interior plaster finish. Unlike traditional paints, Roman Clay is applied using a putty knife. Although this application method can be more challenging than brush painting, the company supports DIY enthusiasts by providing extensive how-to videos on YouTube. These resources empower customers to confidently undertake Roman Clay projects independently. As a boutique company, Portola Paints maintains significant flexibility in presenting its products. Their latest fandeck of colors features 225 distinct shades, each meticulously hand-painted to ensure that the sample accurately represents the final look of the color on a wall. A notable advantage of Portola Paints is their commitment to eco-friendliness; all their paints are zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds). Furthermore, the company facilitates global distribution, making their unique paint solutions accessible to customers worldwide, regardless of their proximity to the company's physical locations. #PortolaPaints #LimeWash #RomanClay #DIYHomeImprovement #EcoFriendlyPaint #InteriorDesign #PaintFinishes #HomeRenovation #ChalkyFinish

The global art market, valued at $524 billion in 2024 and projected to reach nearly $700 billion by 2029, offers substantial opportunities for artists and creatives to establish sustainable income streams. This guide explores over 30 art business ideas for 2026, ranging from digital prints to handmade ceramics, emphasizing how artistic skills can be transformed into profitable enterprises. An art business encompasses any venture generating income from creating, selling, or distributing art, including physical products like paintings, prints, and ceramics, as well as digital creations such as illustrations, design templates, and NFTs. The article combines creative endeavors with a focus on sales and brand building around a unique artistic style. While the art industry is large and growing, income distribution among artists is varied, with individual visual artists in the US reporting a median self-employed income between $20,000 and $30,000. Higher incomes are achievable by selecting niche markets with low competition, packaging art into repeatable products like prints or licenses, utilizing direct-to-consumer sales tools, managing costs effectively, and optimizing pricing. Six-figure incomes typically stem from scalability, premium pricing, recurring revenue models, or diverse business models integrating store sales, commissions, and digital products. The article details numerous art business ideas, each with an income potential overview. These include calligraphy, furniture and décor restoration, greeting card design, embroidery, knitting and crocheting, specialty frames, art handling, wedding photography, tote bag customization, and curating an online shop. Other ideas cover art consulting, book illustration, pet portraits, digital illustration, jewelry making, art lessons, pottery, candlemaking, caricature art, wreath making, art supply retail, rug making, handmade paper production, custom book accessories, mural painting, holiday decorations, screen printing, lampshade design, VR and AR art experiences, AI art prompt packs, and art subscription boxes. Each idea is presented with practical advice on how to start, potential earnings, and considerations for market entry. For example, calligraphy can generate $50 to $200 per project, while furniture restoration can yield $400 to $1,200 per piece. Handmade greeting cards sell for $5 to $10, and custom embroidery pillows for $8 to $100. Knitting and crocheting items range from $25 to $150, and specialty frames from $30 to $200. Wedding photography services are priced between $2,000 and $4,500 per event. Art consulting offers $50 to $250 per hour or 10-20% commission on sales. Digital illustrators can earn $30 to $100 per hour, and custom pet portraits from $50 to $500. Handmade pottery pieces sell for $25 to $250, and handmade candles for $15 to $50. VR and AR art projects can bring in $1,000 to $15,000, and AI art prompt packs $10 to $50 per set. Art subscription boxes typically cost subscribers $25 to $75 monthly. To start an art business, artists need to understand their target audience, pick a pricing strategy that covers costs and yields profit, establish a compelling online presence, develop an effective marketing strategy, engage with the community, and provide excellent customer service. Platforms like Shopify offer comprehensive tools for managing sales, marketing, and customer interactions, while marketplaces like Etsy provide immediate access to an audience. The article stresses the importance of defining a target market, calculating pricing based on hours, materials, and desired profit margins, and creating a visually appealing website with high-quality product descriptions and photographs. It also suggests utilizing social media, educational content, local collaborations, and pop-up shops to increase brand awareness and foster community engagement. Ultimately, success hinges on a combination of high-quality, consistent products and services, supported by strong customer trust and strategic business practices. #ArtBusinessIdeas #CreativeEntrepreneurship #OnlineArtSales #ArtMarketTrends #HomeDecor #DigitalArt #HandmadeCrafts #EcommerceStrategy

This comprehensive guide assists individuals in locating reputable online retailers for various paint types, catering to a range of decorating projects for 2022 and beyond. It covers interior paints for walls and ceilings, specialized options for kitchens and bathrooms, as well as exterior masonry paints and garden fence paints. The article highlights numerous suppliers, detailing the brands and specific paint ranges they offer. Designer Paint is presented as a leading option for its extensive selection of brands, colors, and finishes, including Dulux Heritage, Rust-Oleum, Little Greene, Graham & Brown, and Farrow & Ball. It also provides decorating essentials and helpful 'know-how' tips. Homebase features its own-brand emulsion paint alongside popular names like Crown, Farrow & Ball, and Dulux, notably carrying the exclusive House Beautiful paint collection with 30 on-trend colors. Dulux's official website offers over 1,200 colors, allowing users to filter by location, surface, and finish, and introduces the Simply Refresh range for quick transformations. John Lewis & Partners stocks premium brands such as The Little Greene Paint Company, Sanderson, and Designers Guild, offering both testers and full pots. Farrow & Ball's extensive collection of interior and exterior paints, including the durable modern eggshell for floors, is highlighted for its water-based, quick-drying, and low-odor properties. Frenchic Furniture Paint provides over 60 eco-friendly chalk and mineral paint shades suitable for various indoor and outdoor upcycling projects. Very is recommended for Rust-Oleum furniture paint, spray paint, and glitter/shimmer options, all available for home delivery. Cox & Cox offers a range of timeless paint shades in two premium finishes, with sample collections available for inspiration. Amazon is noted for its ability to provide specific paint brands like Dulux, Ronseal, Rust-Oleum, and Johnstone's, though with a potentially limited product range. I Love Wallpaper supplies Johnstone's wall and ceiling emulsion paint, with 75ml sample sizes available. Argos carries Johnstone's (wall & ceiling, shed & fence) and Rust-Oleum (furniture) paint. eBay, while not offering a vast selection, can be a source for specific types of paint, including Crown, Dulux, and Cuprinol. Paint & Paper Library presents a distinguished palette of 180 unique colors across five finishes, including Architects' Satinwood for hardwearing surfaces. Earthborn Paints specializes in eco-friendly, breathable designer paints with beautiful finishes. Benjamin Moore offers an extensive range of colors, including the Aura Bath & Spa range formulated to resist mold and mildew in humid areas. COAT, a carbon-neutral brand, provides sustainable, fresh-to-order paints in on-trend colors, with notable shades like 'Plant Power'. Claybrook Studio, inspired by its tile collections, offers an eco-conscious, highly pigmented palette in emulsion and eggshell. B&Q; stocks a wide array of paint and decorating supplies, including Dulux, Valspar, and their GoodHome brand. YesColours is an innovative eco-paint brand addressing waste by using recyclable pouches and offering a vibrant palette. eicó provides eco-friendly designer paints in 108 coordinated colors from Iceland and Sweden, featuring Alterior floor paint and a color-matching service. Graham & Brown, known for wallpaper, also offers the Resistance range of paints designed for busy homes. Sanderson features over 150 shades in three finishes. Valspar offers a photo uploader to match desired colors to over 2,000 pre-selected shades. Wilko supplies its own-brand paints alongside Dulux and Cuprinol. Screwfix offers selected paints for specific applications like primers, decking paint, and masonry. Little Greene's intelligent matt emulsion is highlighted for its environmental friendliness, washability, and robustness. Annie Sloan provides chalk paint and wall paint for various decorating and upcycling projects, known for easy application. Fenwick & Tilbrook is a family-run business offering high-quality, made-to-order paints in over 250 colors. Wickes provides interior wall & ceiling paint, furniture & cupboard paint, and primers from brands like Dulux, Sandtex, Ronseal, and their own brand. Lick Home curates a selection of paint colors with peel-and-stick samples for testing. Bauwerk offers natural paints made from clay and minerals, ideal for masonry. Crown features a suede textured emulsion for tactile finishes. Mylands, a Royal Warrant holder, offers 120 London-inspired colors. Craig & Rose provides superior quality paints including the 1829 Vintage Collection and special effects. Dowsing & Reynolds sells a luxury interior paint range in collaboration with Vintro. Decorating Centre Online offers a good range of interior and exterior paints with a color-match service. Vintro Paint provides water-based, virtually odorless paints. Lakeland Paints is known for its odorless, solvent-free, non-toxic decorative paints. Finally, Celtic Sustainables is a large stockist of Earthborn Paint in the UK, offering eco-friendly and sustainable options. #PaintOnline #HomeDecorating #InteriorDesign #PaintBrands #DIYProjects #HomeImprovement #EcoFriendlyPaint #Upcycling #PaintSuppliers

This blog post highlights a creative Kmart hack that transforms inexpensive canvas prints into unique and vibrant wall art. The article features graphic designer Jorge Santos from Sydney, who used this method to upcycle $19 Australiana canvas prints during lockdown. His technique involves adding colorful acrylic paints to the existing prints, resulting in striking pieces of art. Santos initially demonstrated his hack with a kookaburra print, followed by a koala and a kangaroo print, showcasing the versatility of the method across different designs. The process, detailed in the article, involves covering the frames with masking tape for protection and then applying Kmart branded acrylic paints using brushes, a palette knife, and even fingers. A final touch includes flicking splatters of paint onto the artwork to add creative flair. Before-and-after images are provided to illustrate the dramatic transformation of the original Kmart canvas prints into Jorge Santos's artistic creations. The original prints, depicting Australian wildlife, are shown in their standard form, contrasted with the vibrant, re-imagined versions. These images serve to visually communicate the effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of the hack. The hack has garnered significant positive attention on platforms like TikTok, with users expressing admiration and enthusiasm for the idea. Comments from TikTok users are included, praising the transformation and noting how the added colors bring the prints to life. Many expressed an interest in trying the hack themselves. Jorge Santos offers encouragement to those who might question their artistic abilities, emphasizing the simplicity of the process. He explains that the technique is easy to execute, even suggesting that painting with fingers can yield better results. Additionally, he reassures potential participants about the ease of cleanup, as the acrylic paints used are water-based. The article concludes by inviting readers to consider trying this DIY art project. #KmartHack #DIYArt #HomeDecor #CreativeProjects #Upcycling #WallArt #AcrylicPainting #BudgetDecor

The article explores the transformative power of paint in home decoration, drawing inspiration from the multi-hyphenate tastemaker Marian McEvoy. McEvoy, a former fashion reporter, design writer, editor, and artist, approaches home painting with an innovative perspective, resulting in a unique and layered signature style in her upstate New York home. She suggests that a full room repaint is unnecessary for change; instead, she advocates for painting color blocks on walls to define structure, especially in rooms lacking architectural molding. This idea was inspired by Thomas Jayne’s use of color blocks in his SoHo New York loft to visually segment an open space. To personalize these color blocks, McEvoy recommends using trims, ribbons, and fabric remnants, often applied with a glue gun, to create contrasting borders. These decorative elements extend beyond wall borders, appearing on lampshades, table skirts, curtain edges, and even as unconventional baseboards, adding a playful touch to her decor. McEvoy also emphasizes the importance of limiting the color palette within each room to maintain cohesiveness and prevent visual clutter. She prefers a simple palette of two to three contrasting colors against an off-white background, specifically recommending "Navajo white" over stark white for its softer, warmer, and more livable quality. Regarding paint application, McEvoy mixes her own colors, often using art store paints. She suggests water-based paints with a matte or chalky finish for walls and low-shine satin oil-based paint for trim and baseboards, noting the latter's durability and ease of cleaning. This practical consideration for maintenance is crucial for a well-kept home. Beyond walls, she extends her painting philosophy to other home elements, such as plain vellum lampshades, which she updates with painted decorative botanical motifs, encouraging readers to incorporate natural elements and artistry into their spaces. The article highlights that even small painting projects can significantly refresh a home's aesthetic. #HomeDecoration #PaintTransformation #MarianMcEvoy #ColorBlocking #DIYHomeDecor #LimitedColorPalette #InteriorDesignTips #CreativePainting #UpstateNewYorkHome

Hempel A/S, a Danish company established 109 years ago, is a leading paint manufacturer known for its state-of-the-art coatings. The company owns several brands, including Farrow & Ball and Crown, and produces specialized coatings for a wide range of applications, from luxury interiors to infrastructure such as London’s Tower Bridge, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, oil rigs, gas platforms, wind-turbine blades, and ship hulls. These advanced coatings are designed to reduce drag, minimize pollution, and provide exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. In 2023, Hempel reported a record 13.7 percent growth in revenue, reaching €2.4 billion, largely driven by its marine business. Michael Hansen, Hempel’s group president and CEO, highlights the significant growth in their marine sector, attributing it to a paradigm shift towards environmental responsibility and decarbonization in shipping. The company's marine coatings are crucial in helping organizations achieve their environmental goals. Hempel's research and development technology center is actively addressing these challenges. Camilla Holmberg, a formulations specialist, demonstrates the rigorous testing processes, including exposing wind turbine blade coatings to a helicopter-engined weather simulator to ensure protection against rain, which is a major threat to offshore wind farms. The paint's rubbery texture enhances wind resistance and overall protection. Another innovative product is an intumescent paint that can puff up to 50 times its original volume when exposed to high temperatures, effectively insulating steel structures in burning buildings, typically used in oil refineries and seen on the steel frame of Schiphol Airport. Hansen also emphasizes newer marine coatings, such as those protecting hull interiors from harsh cargo and enabling quick turnarounds in ports due to easy cleaning. A super-slippery, self-polishing, silicone-based external paint for ship hulls can reduce drag and fuel consumption by over 17.7 percent. A specialized paint to smooth over vertical welds on a ship's outer hull further reduces fuel consumption by 2 to 3 percent and is biocide-free. The consistency of marine paints is critical for application, akin to the precise flow of ketchup, as explained by Holmberg. The Hempel Foundation, established in 1948 by founder Jørgen Christian Hempel, is the sole owner of the company. This philanthropic foundation gives back to charity, providing employees with a strong sense of purpose. This unique ownership structure, while necessitating reliance on retained earnings for funding, allows for a long-term approach to sustainability, a core company value. The company's commitment to its employees and its purpose-driven mission contribute to its reputation as a top employer in Denmark. The headquarters, designed by Swedish architects Sweco, reflects this ethos with its innovative design and flexible working conditions. Hempel also supports a science and technology center at The Danish Technical University (DTU), fostering talent in sustainable coating solutions, many of whom later join Hempel. Hempel’s business is segmented into four areas: marine, infrastructure, energy, and decorative. The decorative arm includes Farrow & Ball, acquired in 2021, and Crown Paints, and JW Ostendorf. Despite the decorative sector facing challenges post-pandemic, Ana Henriques, executive vice-president and head of decorative, is focused on innovation. Farrow & Ball, known for its rich, deep colors and 100 percent water-based, low-VOC paints, is a pioneer in the industry. The company uses 12 different pigments for its 132 shades and is currently revamping its color range. Hempel also employs a cross-cultural approach to color trends, considering regional preferences and environmental factors, such as the need for natural, sand-erosion-resistant external paints in the Middle East or warmer tones in cooler climates. Upcoming innovations include an upgraded virtual color consultancy service allowing customers to scan rooms and visualize paint effects. #PaintIndustry #SustainableCoatings #MarineTechnology #WindEnergy #ArchitecturalCoatings #FarrowAndBall #HempelFoundation #DanishBusiness #InteriorDesign

COAT, a luxury paint brand, has introduced 19 new paint shades designed to harmonize with the UK's cool-toned, diffused natural light. This collection aims to simplify the decision-making process for homeowners looking for paint colors that offer both longevity and versatility, moving beyond fleeting trends to provide timeless tones that enhance various living spaces. The new range also reintroduces 11 bestselling shades, all centered around muted classic hues intended to work seamlessly with the unique lighting conditions prevalent in UK homes. Rob Abrahams, co-founder of COAT Paints, emphasizes the brand's philosophy of creating colors that remain appealing for years, rather than succumbing to temporary trends. The focus is on tones that elevate spaces and integrate well with natural light and existing UK architectural styles. This approach caters to a broad range of interior design preferences, from dopamine decor to maximalism, as the less saturated shades are formulated to perform effectively across different home aesthetics. Among the new offerings are deeper warm tones such as 'Arctic Roll' and 'Piglet,' alongside contrasting options like 'Brasserie Brown' and 'Rocky.' Each shade is meticulously developed to transcend current trends, providing an effortless yet sophisticated enhancement to any room. Abrahams explains that highly saturated colors can often feel overwhelming and their appeal can diminish quickly. Therefore, COAT champions earthy, muted shades that feel natural and grounded. These warm tones are subtly balanced with a hint of black, ensuring their harmonious interaction with the UK's blue-grey light. This careful formulation allows the colors to shift subtly throughout the day, providing a dynamic yet refined appearance. While bolder colors like Dulux's 'True Joy' are gaining traction in 2025, COAT's collection underscores the enduring popularity of subtle earth tones within contemporary interior design trends. The collection is anchored by three new color families: Plaster, Yellow, and Sand. These families feature intentionally desaturated hues, offering a soft alternative to what COAT refers to as 'traditionally overpowering colors.' For those seeking a tranquil and serene atmosphere rather than a bold statement, these made-to-order paints are available exclusively through the COAT website. Consistent with COAT's existing product lines, this new range is offered in various high-performance finishes, including Flat Matt and Claypaint, allowing customers to achieve their desired look and vision for their home interiors. #PaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #COATPaints #MutedTones #TimelessDesign #UKHomes

Oil paints have been essential to artistic expression and communication since ancient times. Today, both professional artists and DIY home décor enthusiasts rely on high-quality oil paints to achieve their creative visions. The market offers a wide array of brands, each with distinct characteristics, pigment loads, historical quality, and environmental considerations. Selecting the best oil paint involves considering factors such as personal preferences, painting style, and budget. The ideal oil paint should offer rich tones, excellent lightfastness, and smooth consistency. This article provides an in-depth analysis of 15 leading oil paint brands, highlighting their unique strengths and potential drawbacks. Winsor & Newton, a British brand established in 1832, is renowned for its Artists’ Oil Color lineup, which is particularly suitable for beginners. It boasts over 120 colors with high permanence, though its products tend to be pricier. Gamblin, founded in 1980, is celebrated for its environmentally friendly Artist Oil Paint collection, offering 96 colors made with high-grade pigments and refined linseed and safflower oils. It is favored by eco-conscious artists for its smooth consistency, although its color range is smaller and less intense than some competitors. Old Holland, tracing its origins to 1664, is one of the oldest manufacturers and offers the Classic Oil Color range with 168 colors based on historical formulations, known for superior color intensity but also a higher price point. Vasari, an American brand founded by master paintmaker Stephen Salek, produces professional-grade oil colors in over 140 shades, blending traditional colors with modern pigments using classic paint-making techniques. These paints are excellent for glazing and thin applications but may not be ideal for all techniques. Michael Harding, a handmade oil paint brand from 1982, provides 98 vibrant colors with exceptional intensity and rich texture, suitable for both contemporary and classic styles, though some users find them thick. M. Graham, a 25-year-old brand, pioneered the use of natural walnut oil and honey bases in its handcrafted, small-batch paints, resulting in brilliant, fade-resistant colors and a high pigment load. However, its Fast-drying White contains an alkyd resin, which might not suit all artists. Sennelier, a French brand established in 1887, offers 144 creamy and smooth colors with high pigment concentration, ideal for blending. It also developed eco-friendly solvents for its Green for Oil range. The slow-drying nature of Sennelier paints may not be suitable for time-sensitive projects. Rembrandt, owned by Royal Talens, has a century-long history of refining its oil paint formulations, offering 120 colors that are highly respected by professional artists, despite their higher cost. Daler-Rowney, with a history spanning over 240 years, provides three oil paint ranges—Artists’, Georgian, and Graduate—catering to various skill levels. Its Graduate oils are particularly affordable for beginners, while the Artists' range is designed for professionals. Schmincke, a German brand from 1881, offers the high-quality Mussini artist-grade oil paint, known for radiant intensity and maximum lightfastness with 108 unique colors. It is one of the most expensive options, with tubes costing over $15. Williamsburg, originating in Brooklyn, produces over 170 professional-grade colors, milled in small batches to achieve unique textures and enhance pigment expression, though the non-homogeneous texture can be a con. Holbein, a North American brand by Japan-based Holbein Artist Materials, offers Artist Oil Color and Duo Aqua Oils, both known for pure pigments, rich hues, and excellent lightfastness. Holbein primarily caters to intermediate and professional artists, as it does not produce student-grade paints. Utrecht Art Supplies, an American brand founded in 1949, handcrafts high-quality paints with high pigment load and buttery textures, available in Studio and Artists’ Series, though it has a limited color range. Bob Ross, inspired by the legendary artist, provides affordable oil paints and supplies, making art accessible to everyone, but also features a limited color selection. Lastly, Blick offers two ranges: Blick Studio and Artists’ Oil Paints. Blick Studio provides affordable, high-performance options for all artists, while the Artists’ Oil Paints collection uses hand-ground pigments and pure oils for a luminous satin finish. While Blick Studio is budget-friendly, its color range and quality are limited compared to the artist-grade collection. #OilPaintBrands #ArtSupplies #PaintingTechniques #ArtistGradePaints #DIYHomeDecor #PigmentQuality #EcoFriendlyPaints #ArtMaterials

The increasing ease and efficiency of online shopping have extended to the realm of home improvement, specifically paint procurement. This article identifies and evaluates five premier online retailers where consumers can purchase paint without the need to visit a physical hardware store, catering to both convenience and a streamlined selection process. The featured platforms are Ace Hardware, Backdrop, Behr, The Home Depot, and Walmart, each offering distinct advantages for various painting needs. Ace Hardware's online paint studio provides access to thousands of colors from reputable brands like Benjamin Moore, Clark + Kensington, and Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines. The platform incorporates a quiz to assist customers in selecting appropriate paint colors and allows browsing by popular trends. A key consideration for Ace Hardware is its policy against returns for tinted paint, making it more suitable for those who are confident in their color choice or have prior experience with the shade. The availability of home delivery or local pickup options varies by store location. Backdrop distinguishes itself as the first Climate Neutral Certified paint brand, offering a curated collection of 65 low-VOC, low-odor, and Green Wise Certified shades. The brand emphasizes sustainability through eco-friendly packaging, including recyclable metal pans. Backdrop's paint products are designed for various applications, including indoor, outdoor, and cabinet use, available in semi-gloss and standard finishes. The return policy allows for unopened items to be returned without a deadline, though a $10 restocking fee applies to returns after the initial free shipping. Behr stands out for its comprehensive offerings, combining a wide array of colors, sheens, and types with an exceptionally user-friendly website. The site assists users through painting how-tos, a sheen guide, and a paint calculator, simplifying the entire process. Behr also provides five-piece paint kits that include essential tools such as a metal tray, liner, angled sash brush, roller frame, and cover, ensuring customers have all necessary supplies. While shopping occurs on Behr's website, checkout is processed via HomeDepot.com. The Home Depot offers an extensive selection of paint shades, brands (including Behr, PPG, and Glidden), and painting tools, making it a robust option for various projects. The retailer provides a satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to correct or replace unsatisfactory paint. For those undecided on color, peel-and-stick paint samples or 8-ounce paint samples are available. Additionally, The Home Depot facilitates connections with local painting professionals through its Pro Referral Marketplace for projects requiring external assistance. Walmart, a retail giant, also boasts a vast inventory of paint products, including popular brands like Glidden, Valspar, Rust-Oleum, and Lanco, with over 8,000 interior paint options. Customers can simultaneously purchase all necessary painting tools, such as painter’s tape and tarps. The platform allows for filtering by various parameters like price, delivery speed, and availability, alongside color, sheen, and type. Walmart is particularly beneficial for those with specific brand and color preferences, offering convenient delivery options, potentially including same-day service. #OnlinePaintShopping #HomeImprovement #DIYPainting #PaintBrands #EcoFriendlyPaint #PaintTools #HomeDesign

Color is a fundamental element in home aesthetics, capable of profoundly influencing the mood and atmosphere of a space. While comprehensive redecorations to introduce new color schemes are not always feasible or desired, subtle applications of paint can still yield significant transformative effects. Joa Studholme, the in-house color curator at Farrow & Ball, offers five innovative strategies to revitalize existing interiors through paint without necessitating a complete overhaul. The first approach involves creating painted borders around wall decor. If a mirror or artwork appears undersized for a wall, painting a border around it, potentially expanding with contrasting colors, can adjust its perceived scale and prominence. This technique also serves to highlight gallery walls by painting the area directly behind multiple pictures, drawing attention to the collection. An example provided showcases a cozy living room where a mirror is framed with Berrington Blue and Pantalon, enhancing the neutral School House White walls and Smoked Trout fireplace. Secondly, doors, often overlooked in color planning, present an excellent opportunity to inject vibrant hues into a room. Painting a door in a bold color, such as Preference Red in Full Gloss, can introduce an unexpected visual lift, transforming a neutral space into something more dynamic and playful. This method, exemplified by a bedroom with a door painted in Picture Gallery Red contrasting with Inchyra Blue walls, aligns with the 'unexpected red theory' to create dramatic impact. The third suggestion focuses on architraves, typically viewed as functional rather than decorative. Studholme proposes treating these architectural features with lively colors to turn them into contemporary design elements. Using a vivid color like Raw Tomatillo or a softer hue like Pink Ground with a scalloped stencil can redefine architraves. An illustration demonstrates a dining space where a doorway leading to the garden is framed in Green Smoke and Charlotte’s Locks, adding a distinctive pop of color. Oversized painted frames that extend over architraves and onto the ceiling can also impart a sense of importance to specific doors, while even simple arches between rooms can be enlivened with punchy colors like Bamboozle. Fourthly, integrating unexpected colors into joinery, particularly in less conspicuous areas, offers a subtle yet impactful way to introduce color without overwhelming a room's dominant palette. Painting the interiors of kitchen units, closets, or the backs of bookcases with uplifting colors like Stone Blue, Selvedge, or Charlotte’s Locks can create delightful surprises upon opening them. A dining room featuring kitchen cabinets in Green Smoke and Eating Room Red demonstrates how this method can add warmth to a light color scheme. Finally, in bedrooms, paint can be used imaginatively to mimic decorative elements, providing cost-effective and charming solutions. Instead of a physical headboard, painting one directly onto the wall can define the sleeping area and add a unique twist. Using delicate colors like Pale Powder and Eddy on light walls, or bolder choices like Railings or Paean Black for an industrial aesthetic, allows for personalization. This technique is shown in a child's bedroom where white headboards are painted onto green walls. Regardless of the chosen method, it is crucial to sample colors beforehand, as lighting and other environmental factors can significantly alter a paint's appearance. #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #FarrowAndBall #RoomColors #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #DecorativeDetails #DIYDecor #HomeTransformation

Paint is one of the most effective and affordable methods to rejuvenate any room, offering numerous creative possibilities to infuse character into a home. This blog post explores 36 innovative paint ideas suitable for various spaces, emphasizing that a complete room repaint isn't always necessary; often, a subtle touch can create a striking feature. The article begins by advocating for experimentation with paint, citing Marianne Shillingford, creative director and color expert at Dulux, who encourages homeowners to embrace new techniques. It highlights that paint is not permanent, allowing for changes if desired. One such technique is color washing, which differs from color drenching by creating a textured, weathered finish using thinned paints of varying shades and glazes, adding depth and texture to a room, as noted by Caroline Woolmer, head of product design at Lucie Annabel. Another trend involves painting the ceiling, transforming it from a neglected white surface into a focal point with contrasting or standout shades. Marianne Shillingford suggests creative applications like painted skies or yellow circles around light fixtures. The blog also introduces “double drenching,” an advanced form of color drenching where two or more related, yet distinct, colors are used to drench an interior, creating both contrast and harmony through shared pigments and varying undertones, according to Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. For color inspiration, the color wheel is recommended for identifying complementary or surprising combinations. Jordan Larmour, an interior designer, explains how to use the color wheel to create bold contrasts with opposite colors, harmonious gradients with adjacent colors, and lively triadic combinations. Painting wall patterns or murals is also suggested as a fun, expressive way to personalize a home, especially with the rising popularity of dopamine decor. Hand-painted details and folk art techniques are encouraged, with Marianne Shillingford emphasizing that perfection isn't the goal. Updating kitchen cabinets is presented as a cost-effective alternative to a full renovation, allowing for a refreshed look without significant expense, as stated by Jimmy Englezos from Ronseal. Creating painted frames for art or architectural features like windows adds an interesting visual element, drawing attention to specific details or light sources. Catharina Björkman, an interiors expert, suggests painting window frames the same color as walls to enhance the connection with the outdoors. Limewashing, an ancient technique using limestone, pigments, and water, is highlighted for its ability to add a chalky texture and soften colors, providing warmth and a natural finish. Emma Cottrell, marketing manager at BoConcept, notes that layering limewash coats can create deeper color and texture, potentially aiding sleep. Painting the inside of shelves and cupboards offers a subtle pop of color and can define practical areas, especially when contrasted with neutral room designs. Embracing the full color drenching trend involves painting all surfaces, including walls, skirting, woodwork, and ceilings, in a single hue, creating an immersive and cohesive effect. Lucy Steele, Valspar's expert, explains its effectiveness in small spaces by minimizing visual boundaries. Painting tiles in kitchens and bathrooms is offered as a budget-friendly way to update these spaces, with Looeeze Grossman of The Used Kitchen Company noting its transformative power and growing popularity. Matching woodwork to wallpaper, particularly with rich, deep colors, creates an opulent and curated feel, especially beneficial for making smaller rooms cozier, according to Ryan McDonough, interior design expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk. The ombre paint trend, involving a subtle shift from light to dark or vice versa, provides a calming and inviting atmosphere, ideal for feature walls. Maximizing ceiling height in period properties can be achieved by extending two-tone paint upwards, accentuating the room's verticality. Functional paint ideas include creating memo boards with chalk paint in kitchens or children's rooms for personalization, and painting doors or radiators to add feature shades or blend them with the walls. Zoning off a work-from-home space with paint, particularly dark colors, helps visually separate it from other living areas. Painting furniture is suggested for quick refreshes or for renters who want to add color without altering walls. More advanced techniques include tricolor panelling, vertical color blocking for uplifting effects, and creating a painted fireplace focal point. Ombre stripes on shelving, painting canopies over beds for a cocooning effect, and framing vanity areas with painted arches are also detailed. Highlighting architectural details with color blocks and using scallop stencils for patterned walls offer further creative avenues. The article concludes by discussing the cost-effectiveness of paint versus wallpaper and the optimal tools for painting walls, emphasizing that there's an imaginative solution for every room. #HomeDecoration #PaintIdeas #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeDecor #ColorTrends #RoomRefresh #CreativePainting #WallDecor #HomeImprovement

Paintzen, a digital platform connecting professional painters with clients, has recently introduced a specialized trade program aimed at interior designers, decorators, home staging experts, and real estate professionals. This initiative seeks to streamline the often-complex process of painting and wallpaper installation, a critical component in interior design projects. The program provides members with exclusive services and benefits, including access to a network of experienced painters and wallpaper installers across 11 major markets in the United States. The core of the Paintzen trade program is its efficiency and ease of use. Designers can register through the Paintzen website, and soon after, a dedicated project advisor is assigned to them. This advisor works with the designer to review project specifics such as floor plans, drawings, and photos, ensuring a clear understanding of the project scope. This streamlined approach allows designers to manage painting projects remotely, expanding their service reach beyond their immediate geographical area and consequently opening up new business opportunities. Kristen Chuber, senior director of marketing at Paintzen, highlighted the program’s aim to address the challenges designers face in finding reliable and professional painting services within tight timelines. The company guarantees 100% satisfaction, underscoring its commitment to quality that meets both the designer's and client's expectations. Since its inception in 2013 and subsequent acquisition by PPG PAINTS™ in 2018, Paintzen has been focused on revolutionizing the painting process through its comprehensive platform. Members of the trade program receive several key benefits. These include access to color consultations, enabling designers to choose from over 2,000 PPG paint colors, with options for color matching specific items. The platform also provides quick online quotes and on-demand painting and wallpaper installation services delivered by vetted and fully insured professionals. Meghan Stewart, senior director of residential sales at Paintzen, emphasized that the program's dedicated team supports trade partners to ensure high-quality service, aiming to save designers time by removing the need to research vendors or manage the painting process themselves. Paintzen handles the continuous vetting of crews for professionalism and quality, allowing designers to concentrate on their primary role of design and client engagement. Furthermore, Paintzen ensures that all necessary paint and supplies are delivered to the project site on schedule, contributing to a hassle-free experience from the initial concept to project completion. Alicia Hassen, founder of Brooklinteriors LLC, praised Paintzen for simplifying the paint process, particularly when designers are managing multiple tasks simultaneously. The platform's extensive network of contractors allows for quick dispatch, with crews available in as little as 72 hours, catering to urgent project needs. Services can also be scheduled in advance, making it suitable for both long-term projects and last-minute adjustments. The program also extends beyond standard painting tasks, offering a wide range of specialized services. Paintzen's contractors are proficient in various custom projects, including faux finishing, textured painting, decorative wall art, and the painting or staining of cabinetry, as well as the creation of wall murals. This breadth of service allows designers to confidently entrust Paintzen with high-end and unique project requirements. Interested designers can find more information or register for the program via Paintzen's website or by contacting their dedicated email address. #Paintzen #InteriorDesign #TradeProgram #PaintingServices #WallpaperInstallation #DesignProfessionals #HomeRenovation #PPGPaints #ProjectManagement

Rachel Lacy, the founder of drikolor, a New Zealand-based company, has introduced a new approach to paint color technology. Drikolor's core strategy involves separating the color from the paint, using precise pigments that are stirred into a base paint. This innovative method aims to overcome the limitations typically associated with traditional paint purchasing and delivers meticulously designed colors to enhance modern interiors. Lacy developed a specific line of drikolor paint for Dwell, offering a palette that allows for consistent aesthetic appeal across different rooms in a modern home. These colors are formulated using pigments sourced globally, which are then mixed into a base paint to achieve vibrant and consistent hues. The article features an interview with Rachel Lacy, who shares insights into her expertise in color, the unique aspects of drikolor, and the overall customer experience her company provides. Rachel Lacy's passion for color was fostered during her childhood, influenced by her architect father and mother who owned a paint company. She recalls being taught about the built environment and the significance of color from a young age, referencing influential figures like Barragán and Le Corbusier's Color Keyboards. When asked about her favorite natural color, she expresses a fondness for green in all its variations, also noting that nature provides excellent guidance for color combinations. Lacy founded drikolor with the vision of establishing a color company, rather than a conventional paint company, viewing paint merely as a medium for color. Her goal was to allow consumers to purchase color where they are most inspired by it, such as art galleries or homeware stores, which traditionally do not stock paint. To realize this vision, drikolor partnered with Callaghan Innovation, a leading New Zealand research and development institute, to create a proprietary "stir-in" technology. This innovation not only enables the separation of color from paint but also expands the range of accessible pigments beyond those available to traditional paint companies. Drikolor's approach to color development is artisanal and meticulous. Lacy and her team of color specialists focus on pigments used by artists, building colors pigment by pigment without prioritizing cost-efficiency. Their laboratory houses over 100 pigments, allowing for extensive experimentation to achieve optimal colors. Drikolor's colors are multi-pigmented and are complementarily tinted. For instance, the Umber & Ultramarine trio in the Dwell palette combines umber from Cyprus with ultramarine blue from France, resulting in a soft, unique duck egg blue that cannot be replicated using standard commercial tinters. The selection of pigments is based on historical significance, identified through research, personal experience, and discussions with designers and artists worldwide. This often involves seeking non-toxic alternatives for cherished pigments or tracking down pigments that have gone out of mass production. Consumers are encouraged to choose drikolor for its superior color quality, recognizing that paint can profoundly transform a space. Lacy’s mission for drikolor is to reintroduce a richer, more evocative language of color into architectural discourse, drawing inspiration from Luis Barragán's sentiment about the disappearing words like beauty, magic, and serenity from architectural publications. #DrikolorPaint #RachelLacy #ColorTechnology #ModernInteriors #PigmentSourcing #PaintInnovation #InteriorDesign #NewZealandDesign