Off-white is a versatile color that can work in many interior design schemes. It’s not quite stark white, but it’s also not heavily saturated with color either. Off-white sits in that nice in-between space, providing some softness without going overboard into bright color territory. But how exactly do you make an off-white? What colors should you add to white paint or fabric to take it from bright white to a more subtle, off-white hue? Here’s a look at some of the best options for creating off-white tones.
Add a Small Amount of Cream or Beige
One of the easiest ways to tone down bright white into an off-white is to add just a small amount of cream or beige. A touch of these warmer neutrals helps soften the harshness of straight white. You only need to add a very small quantity though – usually no more than a couple tablespoons into a gallon of white paint. Too much cream or beige and you’ll end up with more of a tan rather than off-white look.
Some examples of off-white colors made with cream/beige include:
- Almond white
- Oyster white
- Eggshell white
These off-whites have just a hint of cream or beige in them. They provide a softer, more layered look than plain white.
Add a Small Amount of Grey
Another way to tone down bright white into an off-white is to add a small amount of grey. This creates a cooler, more subtle off-white. Again, just a touch is all you need – adding too much grey will make your off-white look dingy.
Some examples of grey-toned off-whites include:
- Cloud white
- Limestone white
- Silver white
These off-whites have just a hint of gray to take the edge off the brightness of white. They create a more sophisticated, reserved off-white color.
Add a Touch of Yellow
Adding a small amount of yellow is another option for transforming white into off-white. Just a tiny bit of yellow will impart a warm ivory tone. Too much yellow will make the color look more custard-like, so use a light hand.
Some examples of yellow-based off-whites include:
- Ivory white
- Antique white
- Buttermilk white
These off-whites have a barely perceptible sunny yellow undertone. They can impart a vintage, timeworn look.
Add a Little Blue for Cool Tones
On the other end of the spectrum from yellow, adding a tiny amount of blue to white can also create an appealing off-white. The blue tones down the brightness while imparting a cool, almost icy undertone.
Some examples of blue-influenced off-whites include:
- Pale ice white
- Snow white
- Whitewash white
These off-whites have subtle blue undertones, making them perfect for creating refreshing, serene color schemes.
Try Green or Violet for Unique Off-Whites
For some more unusual off-white colors, try adding just a pinch of green or violet. These unique undertones provide more complex off-whites.
Examples include:
- Aqua white (with green)
- Seashell white (with green/violet)
- Orchid white (with violet)
Use a very light hand with these colors as just a tiny amount will impart subtle undertones. Too much will make the off-white seem overly green or violet-tinted.
Combining Colors for Custom Off-White Tones
You can also combine some of these colors to create your own custom off-white tones. Some examples:
- Beige + yellow = biscuit white
- Grey + yellow = pearl white
- Grey + blue = ice white
Experiment by blending small amounts of your chosen colors into white paint or fabric to develop unique off-white shades. Just be sure not to over-saturate the white or the off-white effect will be lost.
Amounts to Add to White
So just how much color should you add to white to create an off-white tone? Here are some general guidelines:
For Paint:
- 1-2 tablespoons of colorant per gallon of white paint
- Be very careful not to over-saturate as less is more
- Test your custom color on a sample board before applying to walls
For Fabric:
- No more than 1/4 teaspoon of liquid dye per 1 yard of fabric
- Dye a fabric swatch before dyeing entire yardage
For Other Off-White Items:
- Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for mixing if provided
- Do test patches to assess color
- Less coloring added is better
Always mix, test, and adjust the color if needed. It’s easy to add more color, hard to remove if you overdo it.
Choosing the Right Off-White Tone
When selecting an off-white, consider the overall design scheme you want to achieve. Here are some tips:
- Warm off-whites with cream/beige complement traditional styles
- Cool off-whites with grey/blue suit modern, sleek designs
- Greenish off-whites work for organic, nature-inspired rooms
- Soft vintage off-whites with yellow/violet create cozy retreats
You can tie your off-white in with other room colors for a coordinated look. Mix and match different shades of off-white to add subtle interest too.
Using Off-White in Your Home
Off-white is extremely versatile and can be incorporated throughout the home:
Walls
Painting walls an off-white is an easy way to impart cozy neutrality. An off-white backdrop lets other furnishings, art and accessories pop. Different off-white tones can customize the mood from room to room.
Trim/Molding
Use off-whites like ivory or antique white on trim and moldings for a traditional touch. Crisp white trim generates visual interest against more saturated off-white walls.
Furniture
Incorporate off-white through upholstered furniture, case pieces and tables/chairs. Mix with wood tones for contrast.
Window Treatments
Choose soft off-white sheers or drapes to allow natural light to filter into the room. Or make bold off-white curtain panels a statement.
Accessories
Throw pillows, throws, vases, decor items and more come in a spectrum of off-whites to mix and match.
Tips for Decorating with Off-White
Here are some top tips for successfully decorating with off-white:
- Select two related off-white tones, like one for walls and a different one for trim
- Incorporate plenty of texture through layered rugs, pillows, and blankets
- Add warm wood tones and green plants to prevent off-whites from feeling too stark
- Bring in black and dark metals for bold contrast
- Use colorful artwork for bright pops of color
- Inject personality through vintage furniture and accessories
Layer in other neutrals like cream, grey and brown for a sophisticated vibe. Off-white interiors feel elegant yet comfortable.
Maintaining Off-White Over Time
Off-whites do require a bit of maintenance to keep them looking their best:
- Touch up any scuffs on off-white walls
- Clean upholstery and linens regularly
- Use area rugs to protect off-white floors from dirt
- Use tablecloths and placemats to prevent stains
- Wash window treatments like off-white sheers frequently
- Spot clean walls and trim as needed
Invest in some good cleaning supplies for off-white fabrics. Also be diligent about addressing spills, stains and dirt quickly to prevent them from setting. With regular care, off-white surfaces will maintain their appeal.
Conclusion
Off-white is the perfect neutral tone – not too stark, not too beige. By adding just a small amount of color like cream, grey, yellow or blue, you can transform bright white into a more flexible off-white. Customize your own off-white color by gently tinting white paint or fabric using the color combinations and amounts recommended. Choose tones that coordinate with your overall room schemes. Off-white can create warm, inviting spaces full of cozy sophistication. Just be prepared to keep up with minor cleaning to prevent stains and scuffs from accumulating over time. With the right off-white color selection and ongoing care, you can enjoy this versatile, soft neutral for years to come.
