Top Tips for Planning and Purchasing Paint for Your Next Project

Forget the guesswork that turns paint shopping into a headache. You can plan your next DIY home project with clear steps that save you money and avoid colour disasters. This guide shares top tips for paint planning and paint purchasing that bring designer looks without designer prices—thanks to clever tools like the DupeCoat app. Ready to see how smart choices make your walls sing? Learn more here.

Getting Started with Paint Planning

Before you dip a brush into your paint can, there are key steps to ensure your project starts on the right foot. Let’s explore how to set your painting plan into motion.

Assessing Your Project Needs

First, you need to figure out what your project really requires. Take a good look at your space. Are you refreshing just one room or tackling the entire house? Measure your walls to estimate how much paint you’ll need. It’s always better to buy a bit more than run short. Consider the purpose of each room. Bedrooms might need calming colours, while living areas could benefit from brighter tones. Remember, the right colour can change how you feel in a space. For more insights on choosing the right paint for your home, check out these useful tips.

The “Two Coat” Rule When using a paint calculator, always remember: Standard walls require two coats.

If a room has 40m² of wall space, you are actually painting 80m² of surface.

The Math: 80m² ÷ 16m² (average trade coverage) = 5 Litres of paint.

Pro Tip: If you are painting a dark colour over a light wall (or vice versa), budget for a third coat or a “grey undercoat” to ensure the depth of colour pops without wasting your topcoat.

Once you’ve identified your needs, think about the surface you’re painting. Different surfaces, like wood or plaster, might require different types of paint. This step ensures you select the right products from the get-go, saving time and avoiding costly mistakes.

Choosing Your Colour Palette

Selecting a colour palette is where your creativity shines. But don’t just pick any colour that catches your eye. Consider the existing decor and furniture. Do you want to complement or contrast these elements? A mood board can help you visualise how different shades work together.

Explore popular trends but always stick to hues that resonate with your personality and style. It’s tempting to go with bold colours, but sometimes softer tones create a more inviting atmosphere. If you’re unsure, test a few samples on your walls and observe how they look at different times of the day. This simple trick can prevent colour regret and make your painting project a joy.

Navigating Paint Purchasing

With your plan solidified, it’s time to dive into the world of paint purchasing. But how do you ensure you get the best value and quality? Let’s break it down.

The “Tiny Tin” Trap (Retail vs. Trade) When planning your budget, the biggest mistake is looking at the price of a 2.5L tin.

Retail Reality: Most designer paints are sold in 2.5 Litre tins for ~£60.
Trade Secret: Professional trade paint is standardly sold in 5 Litre tins for ~£40-£50.

By switching to a trade match via DupeCoat, you aren’t just saving money on the price tag; you are getting double the liquid volume. Always plan your project based on 5L quantities—you will likely need fewer tins than you think because trade paint often covers up to 17m² per litre compared to the standard 12-14m² of retail brands.

Understanding Paint Types

Not all paints are created equal. You’ll encounter terms like ’emulsion’, ‘satin’, and ‘eggshell’. Each of these has its own benefits and ideal uses. For high-traffic areas, you might need something washable like a satin finish. Meanwhile, a matte emulsion is perfect for hiding wall imperfections.

Which Finish Do You Actually Need? Don’t just guess between “Matt” and “Silk.” Here is what the professionals use for each room:

For Living Rooms & Bedrooms: You want a “Vinyl Matt” (like Johnstone’s Trade Covaplus). It’s flat, hides imperfections, and doesn’t reflect light.
For Hallways & Kitchens: You need an “ISO Rated Scrubbable Matt” (like Crown Trade Clean Extreme). It looks just as flat as standard matt, but you can scrub mud or grease off it without ruining the finish.
For Woodwork: Ditch the “Gloss.” The modern trend is “Satinwood” or “Eggshell.” It gives a velvety sheen that looks far more premium than shiny gloss.

Know the difference between water-based and oil-based paints, too. Water-based options are quick-drying and have fewer fumes, while oil-based paints offer a durable finish. Understanding these distinctions ensures you choose the right one for every room. Explore more here.

Finding Designer Paint Dupes

Everyone loves the look of designer paint, but not the price. This is where paint dupes come in. They offer the same chic tones without the hefty cost. The DupeCoat app is your best friend here. It matches thousands of designer shades to affordable alternatives.

Imagine getting the elegance of Farrow & Ball or Little Greene without breaking the bank. With DupeCoat, you can head to a local trade counter and request the exact match. This smart choice allows you to achieve premium aesthetics on a budget. And if you’re curious about how paint can transform your home, this guide is a must-read.

Cost-effective Decorating Strategies

Once you’ve got the paint, how do you ensure your decorating efforts are economical yet effective? Here’s how to stretch your budget while maintaining style.

Colour Matching Technology Tips

Colour matching has come a long way. You don’t need to rely on guesswork or memory. Tools like digital fan decks and colour sensors can help you find the perfect match. DupeCoat, for example, uses the NCS (Natural Colour System) to provide accurate colour codes.

This technology simplifies your choices and ensures you get the exact shade you want. No more settling for a colour that’s “close enough”. This precision means you buy only what you need, reducing waste and costs. Learn more about budgeting smarter with these hidden factors.

Using the DupeCoat App for Savings 🎨

The DupeCoat app isn’t just about colour matching. It’s a comprehensive tool for planning and purchasing paint. With features like a smart calculator, you can determine exactly how much paint you need, avoiding overbuying.

It’s also great for organising your project. Save your favourite palettes and create lists for different rooms. This level of organisational power helps you stay on track and on budget. By taking advantage of these features, you can enjoy a beautifully painted home without financial stress.

Every stroke of your brush can be a step towards the home of your dreams. With these strategies, you can paint with confidence, knowing you’ve made smart, informed choices.