Before you even look at paint chips, think about how you want the room to feel.

Once you’ve narrowed down the mood, it’s time to explore your options.

• Visit a store like Lowe’s or browse online at valspar.com.
• Pick up free paint chips in every color you’re even slightly considering.
• Don’t worry about choosing the “perfect” one yet—this is your chance to explore.
• Decide whether you’re drawn to warm or cool tones.

• Warm undertones (reds, oranges, yellows) create a cozy, inviting feel.
• Cool undertones (blues, greens, violets) bring a calm, refreshing vibe.

Hold your chips up to the light and see which direction they lean.

Now it’s time to test your favorites in real life.

For best results:

• Buy small paint samples of your top picks.
• Paint swatches on your walls—try both well-lit areas and darker corners.
• Observe the colors at different times of day. A shade that looks perfect in the morning might feel totally off by evening.

Don’t forget to look beyond the room you’re painting.

• Check how your new color will look next to adjoining rooms.
• Try to choose shades with similar undertones to create a smooth, cohesive transition throughout your home.

Once you’ve tested and compared, go with the color that feels right. In this case, Delightful Moon 3004-6A brought warmth and brightness to the space—and totally changed the feel of the room.