Choosing a paint color for a room can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to settle on just one shade. Purple is a popular color choice for many reasons. It’s associated with creativity, imagination, and tranquility. If you’re thinking about painting your room a shade of purple, there are a few key factors to consider to help you select the perfect hue.
Decide on Undertones
The first decision to make is whether you want a purple with warm, cool, or neutral undertones. Warm purple shades have undertones of red or orange. They make a room feel cozy and inviting. Some examples of warm purple paint colors are mulberry, amethyst, and magenta. Cool undertone purples have hints of blue or green. They create a calming vibe and are associated with sophistication. Popular cool purple paints include lavender, periwinkle, and lilac. Neutral purple shades don’t lean warm or cool. They are versatile and pair well with many different decor styles. Eggplant and iris are neutral shade options.
Consider the Room’s Lighting
The room’s lighting is another essential factor in choosing the right purple paint. Natural and artificial light can really change how a color looks on the walls. In a room with abundant natural light, both light and darker shades of purple will look great. For low-light spaces, lighter purples help brighten up the room. Darker shades can make a room with minimal natural light feel dark and closed in. Test paint chips at different times of day to see how the lighting affects the color.
Complementary Colors
Think about which colors already exist or that you plan to use in the room’s decor when selecting a purple paint. Choose a purple hue that complements the existing or planned color scheme. Purple works well with shades of green, blue, gray, yellow, and pink. For a monochromatic look, use varying shades and tints of purple. Contrasting colors like orange and yellow really make purple walls pop. Avoid pairing purple with red, which can feel dated or overpowering.
Mood and Feel
Lighter and more subdued purples create a gentle, tranquil mood. Soft lavender or lilac can feel airy, delicate, and romantic. Vibrant, deep purple shades are dramatic, luxurious, and sophisticated. Dark eggplant purple lends a cozy, moody feel. Bright purples with pink undertones are whimsical, fun, and youthful. Decide what type of mood you want the room to have and choose a purple shade that evokes that feeling.
Purple Paint Options
Now that you’ve considered the undertones, lighting, color scheme, and desired mood for the space, it’s time to look at specific purple paint colors. Here are some of the most popular and versatile shades of purple paint to consider:
| Paint Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Lavender Bliss | Light purple with cool blue undertones. Airy, delicate, and feminine. |
| Grape Vine | Deep purple with red undertones. Rich and romantic. |
| Royal Orchid | Vibrant purple with blue undertones. Regal and luxurious. |
| Starry Night | Deep, inky eggplant purple. Moody and sophisticated. |
| Lilac Fields | Soft, pale purple with gray undertones. Soothing and relaxing. |
| Purple Haze | Medium purple with subtle gray undertones. Calming and spiritual. |
| Mauve It | Light pinkish purple. Whimsical and youthful. |
These are just a handful of the many gorgeous purple paint colors to choose from. Be sure to get a few paint swatches and view them in both natural and artificial light at different times of day. Paint a large sample area on your wall and live with it for a few days before committing. This will ensure you end up with the perfect purple paint color for your space.
Factors that Influence Cost
When budgeting for your purple paint project, the total cost will depend on a few key factors:
Type of Paint
The brand and quality of paint you choose will affect the price per gallon. Here are some typical price ranges:
– Economy paint – $10-$30 per gallon
– Mid-range paint – $30-$60 per gallon
– Premium paint – $60-$100+ per gallon
Premium paints have more pigments for better color and coverage. Economy brands are more affordable but require more coats.
Sheen Level
Flat or matte finishes are usually the most budget-friendly. Eggshell and satin paints cost a little more. Glossy sheens like semi-gloss are generally the most expensive. Consider the existing wall texture and how much cleaning the walls require when choosing a sheen.
Primer
Most surfaces need primer before painting for proper adhesion and coverage. Primer adds an additional cost of around $25-$40 per gallon. However, it prevents the need for an extra coat of paint.
Labor Costs
If you plan to have your room professionally painted, labor will be a significant portion of the total project cost. According to HomeAdvisor, average hourly rates for painters range from $20-$50 per hour.
Preparing for Painting
Proper prep work ensures you end up with flawless purple walls. Here are some tips for getting your room ready for paint:
– Remove all furniture andwall hangings to give you open access.
– Fill any holes or cracks with spackle and sand smooth.
– Clean walls thoroughly with TSP cleaner and allow to fully dry.
– Apply painter’s tape around trim, baseboards, and adjacent walls.
– Be sure to open windows and use fans for proper ventilation.
– Cover floors with a tarp or drop cloth to protect from paint drips.
Allow at least 2-3 days for prep work before starting to paint for adequate drying time on patched walls. Investing in prep will reward you with professional looking purple walls.
Paint Application Tips
Follow these tips as you apply your purple paint for flawless coverage:
– Always paint in sections and complete an entire wall before moving on. Work in a zigzag pattern.
– Use high-quality applicator tools like Purdy or Wooster brand brushes and microfiber paint rollers.
– Maintain a wet edge and don’t allow paint to dry between sections to avoid lap marks.
– Apply two coats of paint allowing proper drying time in between coats. Primer may only require one coat.
– Inspect walls for any missed spots and use a small brush to touch-up before removing painter’s tape.
Take your time with the paint application for a smooth professional finish. Proper techniques prevent headaches down the road.
Caring for Purple Walls
Once your beautiful purple walls are complete, you’ll want to keep them looking fresh by following these maintenance tips:
– Allow at least 30 days before cleaning painted walls for complete curing. Use only mild cleanser and soft cloth.
– Spot clean scuffs or marks to prevent damaging the paint. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
– Repaint high-traffic areas like around light switches every 2-3 years to refresh the color.
– Use painter’s tape for hanging art and decor to prevent damaging the paint.
– Dust walls frequently and wash with mild cleaner every 6-12 months to remove dirt buildup.
– Keep humidity levels in the 40%-50% range to prevent excess moisture damage to paint.
– Avoid placing furniture flush against purple walls, which can cause rub marks over time.
With proper care, your purple painted room can maintain its vibrant color and stay looking fresh for many years before needing repainting.
Conclusion
Painting your room a shade of purple is an exciting way to add personality, creativity, and visual interest to your space. Assessing the room’s lighting, existing decor, desired mood, and your budget will help narrow down the purple hue choices. Proper prep work, careful application of two coats of quality paint, and routine maintenance are key to achieving stunning, long-lasting purple walls. With so many gorgeous shades to choose from, you can’t go wrong embracing your love of purple and painting your sanctuary in your favorite regal color.
