1
Make a color board. You might have been living in a beige room for years because you are scared of color. Don't be afraid that the paint transformation will be too shocking. Gather up fabric samples from your curtains and furniture. Bring out paint swatches and match them to the existing colors in the room. This could be the color of the wood floors, or the stone on the fireplace. Put all of the colors on a bulletin board. This way you'll be able to find colors that will coordinate and tie in all of your existing pieces.
2
Get inspired. Choosing a custom color palette takes practice. Learn from the experts. Find a focal point for your room. This could be a pillow or piece of artwork. The creator has already matched colors together for you. You can decorate with the same paint colors that are found in the artwork. You can also choose different colors that will coordinate with your inspiration piece. Find complementary colors by looking at the tones across from your color on the color wheel.
3
Decide on how you want your room to make you feel. Define the purpose of your room before you decorate with paint colors. This lets you know whether you want the room to energize you or calm you down. Paint colors can help you relax or even stimulate your appetite. For a cheery feeling, go with warm tones like yellow or red. If you want a more subdued space look at pale blues, greens or grays.
4
Choose a primary color. This color will be what you see the most of in a room. If you are decorating a kitchen with paint colors your primary color will go on your cabinets if they take up most of the space. In a living room the primary color would probably be the walls. This can be a neutral color if you don't want to repaint the walls every few years. If you use a bold primary color, accent it with more neutral furniture so the eye has a place to rest.
5
Pick an accent color. The accent color should compliment your primary color. An accent color allows you to use shocking or bold colors without overwhelming the room. You can paint your furniture in a bright red or deep chocolate brown. Tie in your accent color and primary color with a pattern that uses both colors. Use this sparingly in the room, like on the drapes or throw pillows.
6
Use paint in unexpected places. Paint isn't just for walls. Pick up spray paint to refinish the chandelier or cabinet hardware. Spray paint even comes in metallic or hammered finishes. Decorate an entire room with paint depending on your flooring. It's one of the least expensive ways to decorate and gives you a big impact.
