Helpful Information
Selecting a Colour Scheme
One of the most essential elements in the creation of an atmosphere in a property is the choice of colour schemes. As you will probably be aware, there is a very wide range of colours available to choose from nowadays, and this seems to be continually growing. We recommend & use the Dulux colour range, which has proved itself to be of a very high standard time and time again.
Quick Tips
Colours will change with the light
When choosing a colour, bear in mind that it will look darker or stronger in a large area than it does on a colour chart. The biggest influence on the final appearance of the chosen colour, particularly on walls and ceilings, will be the amount and type of light in the room. In general, the poorer the lighting, the darker the paint will appear.
Use colour testers
Use a 'colour tester' so that you can assess the effect of a colour in the room it will eventually feature in. These are available from all good supply shops, and usually free.
Test your colours
Apply the colour testers to pieces of white card; you can then move the piece of card around the room to see how the colour will look in different lighting conditions as well as matching it against furnishings.
Check your colour scheme now!
If you want to instantly get an idea Dulux also offer a very handy tool to help you visualise how your colour choices will look in real life. This is called the Dulux MousePainter™ and we highly recommend you taking a look at it!
Professional advice
Making the wrong colour choice can be a costly mistake, both in terms of materials and of time. We will always try to help you with your choices (after all, advice is free!). When you contact us for your initial visit, we will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Specialist Paint Effects (Faux Effects)
Dragging
Dragging is a basic form of grain effect, which can be used very effectively, on built-in furniture, skirtings, architraves and on door rails and stiles. It is particularly attractive when used to "frame" panels etc. that have been Rag-Rolled.
Rag-Rolling
Rag rolling or "ragging" creates dramatic texture. For this reason, many people prefer using softer, more closely related colours when ragging, as contrasting colours create a very bold effect.
Marbleising
Marbleising is a comparatively simple process, which can be used on built-in furniture, bath side-panels or radiators to produce an attractive Marble type finish.
Grain Imitation
Grain Imitation is used when a natural wood finish is wanted, say for example on an existing cupboard door. Grain Imitation is a low cost and easy way to create a wood grain finish by using paint.
Colour Washing
Colour washing gives your walls an overall irregular, cloudy appearance normally with some visible brush strokes. In Colourwashing, the glaze coat forms a layer of colour through which the base colour is still visible. This effect is most commonly created by using a brush but a sponge can also be used to achieve a softer, subtler result. The random nature of this finish makes it ideal for walls with surface irregularities.
Stippling
Stippling gives dimension to otherwise flat wall surfaces. As the aim is to produce a gentle, even finish, any defects in the wall show up clearly. As a result any making-good must be carried out thoroughly and with great care.
