Don’t always default to the most expensive. Whilst the most expensive paints have some fabulous pigments in them, there are also some good quality alternatives, see e-paints to compare colours from the most expensive to some good quality trade options.
Buy sample pots. Don’t make the mistake of buying a large pot of paint if you haven’t tested out whether or not it will work in the room it is destined for. The light in the room can make the paint look darker or lighter than you expect, and change over the course of the day or not match your existing furnishings.
Test the paint colour out. Paint the sample onto a large piece of white cardboard paper and hang it up in the room you wish to paint to see if the colour works – if necessary move the cardboard painted sample around the room to see how the light hits it in different places.
Buy the right paint type. If in doubt, get advice from the paint shop near you. If it’s for a kitchen or bathroom you’ll need a paint that can cope with steam or if it’s for a high traffic area, something more durable will be needed. There are also different paints for wood and metal work, interiors and exteriors.
Prime and prepare the surface! Before you paint, ensure the surface area is clean and smooth then apply the undercoat or primer before painting the chosen top coat.