Off-white is a versatile color that can add a soft, neutral tone to any space. It’s commonly used in home decor, fashion, and design as it provides a clean, bright backdrop that allows other colors to pop. But achieving the perfect off-white shade can be tricky since there are so many options for mixing and blending colors. In this article, we’ll look at the most common ways to mix and create off-white paint colors.
Defining Off-White
Off-white sits between stark bright white and warm antique white on the color spectrum. It’s paler than beige and has a barely perceptible tint of cream, grey, or tan. The muted tone creates a subtle elegance and works well with both warm and cool palettes.
Unlike bright white, off-white has more depth and character. It also contrasts less harshly with other colors. This adaptability makes it a popular choice for modern, minimalist looks as well as farmhouse, boho, or eclectic styles.
Main Colors for Mixing Off-White
There are a few key colors that are commonly used as a base when mixing off-white:
White – Bright white paint is the natural starting point for pale off-white. Different white bases like titanium white, zinc white, or antique white will produce slightly nuanced off-whites.
Beige – Adding a touch of beige paint will warm up off-white with subtle sandy tones. Works well for earthy palettes.
Grey – Mixing in grey paint creates a cooler, more muted off-white. Greige off-whites pair beautifully with blue and green color schemes.
Cream – Cream paint adds richness and depth for an elegant, antique look. Cream-based off-whites complement red tones.
Getting the Right Undertones
Small amounts of other colors can also be added to tweak the undertones and create the exact off-white look you want. Consider adding a dab of:
– Yellow for a vintage, parchment effect
– Pink for a soft, soothing ambiance
– Green to evenly neutralize red/pink undertones
– Violet for a warm, earthy vibe
– Blue for a chill, tranquil mood
The undertone will impact the overall look and feel of the off-white shade. Test samples on the wall before committing to really see how the undertones come through.
Mixing Off-White Paint
Mixing a custom off-white is easy. Start with a ratio of 4 parts white paint to 1 part cream/beige/grey paint. Adjust the ratio to dial in the exact intensity of color you want.
Here are some examples of common off-white mixes:
| Color 1 | Color 2 | Parts |
| White | Beige | 4:1 |
| White | Grey | 4:1 |
| White | Cream | 4:1 |
Add a few drops of accent colors like yellow, pink, or blue if desired. Mix well before painting for an even, consistent hue.
Purchase sample sizes of paint to preview colors before doing the whole room. Be sure to view samples in both natural and artificial light to see how the undertones come through.
Choosing Sheen
Off-white paint comes in a variety of sheens from flat to high-gloss. The sheen impacts how the color looks and performs:
– Flat – Muted, velvety finish; hides imperfections; needs retouching
– Eggshell – Soft glow; resists yellowing; easy to clean
– Satin – Subtle luster; durable and scrubbable
– Semi-Gloss – Reflective shine; amplifies color; resists stains
– Gloss – Bold gloss; vibrant color; withstands humidity in bathrooms/kitchen
Generally, lower sheens like flat or eggshell work best for walls, while higher gloss options are good for trim, cabinets, and high-traffic areas.
Off-White Paint Brands
Every brand of paint formulates off-whites a bit differently. Here are some of the most popular ready-made off-white paint colors by brand:
| Brand | Off-White Colors |
| Behr | White Heron, Silver Lining, Cream Puff |
| Benjamin Moore | Chantilly Lace, Linen White, White Dove |
| Sherwin Williams | Pure White, Extra White, Creamy |
| Valspar | Swiss Coffee, Ecru, Latte |
These can be used as-is or serve as a starting point for further customization. Always get physical paint samples before committing to a full gallon.
Painting Tips
Proper prep and technique will ensure your off-white paint looks its best:
– Prime walls first for enhanced adhesion and truer color
– Cut in edges with a brush, then roll paint onto walls
– Overlap edges to blend for a seamless look
– Work in manageable sections to avoid lap marks as you go
– Maintain a wet edge and don’t go back over areas that have dried
– Work in the direction of the light source to make any imperfections less visible
– Use high quality primer and paint from the same brand for compatibility
Complementary Colors
Off-white’s neutral versatility allows it to work with nearly any color scheme or palette. Here are some shades that pair particularly beautifully:
– Navy – Off-white has a brightening effect on dark navy, lightening the look. A classic combination.
– Light Blue – Soft and summery. Off-white lets the aqua tones shine.
– Sage Green – Earthy meets airy. Off-white’s creaminess balances vibrant green.
– Brick Red – Sophisticated and traditional. Off-white offsets and enhances the rich red.
– Charcoal – Moody dramatics. Off-white prevents charcoal from feeling too dark and heavy.
– Yellow – Cheerful and upbeat. Off-white prevents acidic yellows from becoming overpowering.
Rooms for Off-White
Off-white can be used effectively throughout the home:
Living Rooms – Provides an open, airy backdrop for furnishings and decor. Feels less sterile than bright white.
Bedrooms – Calm and dreamy. Off-white walls won’t visually shrink the space like stark white.
Bathrooms – Crisp and clean. Off-white resists moisture and hides water spots.
Kitchens – A lighter alternative to cream for a subtler look. Durable and easy to keep clean.
Dining Rooms – Allows bolder colors like deep reds or blues to stand out. Reflects light well.
Entryways – Welcoming and light. Off-white walls or trim give continuity throughout the home.
Conclusion
Off-white paint offers flexibility, allowing you to strike the right balance between the vibrant look of white and the rich depth of cream or beige. With the right base colors and proper mixing technique, you can easily achieve a custom off-white hue with the exact subtle undertones you want. Paint samples and complementary accent colors will help ensure your off-white paint looks perfectly elegant in any space.
